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A UK mobile phone giant has expanded its operations in Australia after buying part of a local retailer.

Vodafone now holds a stake in Crazy John’s, which it describes as a “major” shareholding. The deal follows a distribution agreement that the companies formed last year.

The group bought the shares held by Patricia Ilhan, whose late husband John founded the business, for an undisclosed sum. The deal adds 120 outlets to its portfolio, which already has 200 of its own-branded shops across the country.

Vodafone Australia chief executive Russell Hewitt said the acquired business will become a “significant part” of the group’s operations.

Crazy John’s was established as a dealer for phone company Telstra, but the agreement ended last year and John Ilhan turned to Vodafone instead.

Patricia Ilhan told reporters that the deal ensures a strong future for Crazy John’s. “On a personal level I know that John was excited when he struck a commercial arrangement with Vodafone last year,” she said. “He knew he had found a dynamic partner for Crazy John’s to move forward. John’s belief has been vindicated with this announcement.”

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