Omnivend O2 deal could result in 40 jobs

A Co Waterford-based technology company has signed a deal with O2 that could result in the creation of up to 40 jobs.

Omnivend is a niche provider of specialist kiosks that allow people to top up their mobile phones. The company has signed a deal with O2 that will see its kiosks placed in 20 O2 stores around Ireland with the possibility of the kiosks also being sold in the UK.

CEO Omnivend Fiona Dowd said they were hopeful that the expansion into the UK would provide a boost of employment for Waterford.

“We’re delighted to partner with O2 in Ireland to bring what is an excellent product to a wider Irish audience through our self-service kiosks. We hope to potentially roll-out our product in the UK over the coming months which in turn will help us to further boost employment in Waterford,” she said.

Omnivend has developed its own intellectual property in the niche vending machine space that has allowed them to differentiate itself from other operators.

The Omnivend machines are the first to dispense change for those topping up in multiples of €5 or more. Customers can also use Omnivend’s technology to top up their O2 money card in-store in sums from €5 to €350 per transaction.

O2’s Brendan Moran said the kiosk provision has helped the company provide a better service in their shops.

“Customers no longer need to queue at the counter to simply top-up their phone or O2 money card. With the kiosks, it can be completed in a minute or two,” he said.