Media Release
1 December, 2016
VOCUS ENTERS ENERGY MARKET
First acquisition in New Zealand post-merger
Mobile, landline, broadband, gas and power bundle for Slingshot customers
Vocus New Zealand has today taken ownership of Switch Utilities Ltd, marking the company’s first acquisition in New
Zealand since the merger with M2 Group earlier this year.
As an innovative market leader, Vocus is the first telco in New Zealand to acquire an electricity company. Switch will
continue operating under its current structure, and energy will be offered via the Vocus stable of brands, starting with
Slingshot in the new year.
Competing with the top energy providers, Vocus Chief Executive New Zealand Mark Callander sees huge potential for
service bundles in the New Zealand market and is confident of delivering competitive packages for Slingshot customers.
“We pride ourselves on being a challenger brand in the telco market. We will bring that same ethos to the energy market,
shaking up the current offering for Kiwis. We are flexible, competitive and with the great team at Switch, we’re in a
strong position to offer Kiwis a one-stop-shop for their household connections.
“In the new year, Slingshot will be offering customers broadband, landline, mobile, gas and electricity – all on the
same bill, with great customer service,” said Callander.
Currently supplying energy to a range of businesses and households, but with a focus on apartments, schools and sports
grounds, Nick Yates, CEO of Switch Utilities, sees the acquisition as a natural fit.
“While we’re a relatively small player, we’re excited to become a part of such a reputable company with the similar
values and a focus on strong customer service and excellent products. With Vocus, we will naturally expand our customer
base into the consumer segment and we are confident that our existing customers will value the growth of our offering.
“We are also looking forward to extending our energy services to Vocus customers. Our team at Switch is on board and
will continue business as usual,” said Yates.
Callander intends for the addition of electricity to the Vocus product suite to challenge competitors in both the telco
and energy industries.
“The first few months in the new year is always a busy time for telco and energy as Kiwis reconsider their providers. We
hope Slingshot’s new offering will be an incentive to switch. We’re confident that this is a strong step in the right
direction for the business and we’re excited to see the response from Kiwis,” said Callander.
People keen to find out more can register their interest at slingshot.co.nz/power
Ends