Last checked at 
LONDON (Alliance News) - Vodafone PLC Thursday confirmed plans to invest GBP100 million in the UK to open 150 new retail shops and create 1,400 jobs, as it ramps up its investment programme in the country.
Vodafone plans to invest GBP1 billion during 2014 in its UK networks and services. Vodafone said work was already "well under way" on its commitment to providing indoor and outdoor coverage of 2G, 3G and 4G services to 98% of the UK's population by 2015.
"This year we'll invest more than ever before to provide our customers with the strongest network and best services in the UK," said Jeroen Hoencamp, chief executive of Vodafone UK. "We're also committed to putting our brand and our people where our customers want us: right at the heart of their high street and shopping centre."
The 150 new stores will open over the next twelve months, bringing Vodafone's total number of UK outlets to over 500. The first shops opened will be in Notting Hill, Fulham, Walthamstow, Wembley, Ilford, Perry Barr and Bicester.
UK Prime Minister David Cameron said the plan was a "vote of confidence in the UK workforce," and said it was a sign that the UK's "long-term economic plan to create jobs and build a stronger, more competitive economy is working."
Shares in Vodafone are not yet traded Thursday. It closed down 0.01% at 221.13 pence Wednesday.
By Hana Stewart-Smith; hanassmith@alliancenews.com; @HanaSSAllNews
Copyright © 2014 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
