Phone shop sprouts a sideline

M-viron, in Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, launched its new move this month in direct response to supermarkets selling mobile phones. The company's owner says she is concerned over the increasing number of people buying phones without getting expert knowledge.

So in addition to the selection of mobile phones and accessories, the store is flogging sprouts over the festive period.

Store owner Becky Robinson said people often bought mobile phones without knowing exactly what they were getting.

She said: "Unlike mobile phones, selling sprouts doesn't require a great amount of expert knowledge.

"Often, supermarket customers purchase mobile phones without fully understanding the capabilities of their handset. In other words, they may be paying for features that they never use."

Mrs Robinson said she was concerned people were not fully aware of what phone they were buying in a supermarket.

She said a mobile phone could be compared to a Brussels sprout because of the amount of information provided about the product.

"The problem often starts when these customers leave the store," she added. "As a result, we regularly see visitors to our store that require further information about their handset and how to use it.

"Obviously, we are pleased to help. But the customer could save money and the inconvenience by getting the service they deserve from the outset.

"If supermarkets aren't willing to make the investment in quality customer service that mobile phones require, then maybe they should stick to selling sprouts."

Sprouts are only available in M-viron while stocks last.

By Dani Webb