Our Phone Refurb Business Turns 25!

Here since 1999, here to stay.

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary at The Big Phone Store, we’re excited to reminisce about the incredible journey we’ve had in the world of mobile phones. From the days of bulky carphones to the sleek smartphones we use today, our story is intertwined with the evolution of mobile technology.

The 90s: Humble Beginnings and the Dawn of a New Era

Founded in 1999: The Year of The Matrix and Sliding Mobile Phones

Our story began in 1999, a year marked by technological milestones and cinematic wonders. It was the year when “The Matrix” hit the screens, showcasing those iconic sliding mobile phones that everyone wanted. Amidst this tech-crazed era, we started as Euro Communications Distribution Ltd, a company focused on refurbishment, repair, and recycling of mobile phones.

Carphones: The Giants of the Past

Remember the days when carphones were a symbol of luxury and high technology? We were there! Our early days were filled with handling these giants, and it’s fascinating to see how far we’ve come from those bulky devices to today’s sleek and multifunctional smartphones.

The 2010s: Expanding Horizons and Embracing Trade-Ins

A Decade of Growth: More Than Just Refurbishing

The 2010s marked a significant shift in our journey. We started accepting trade-ins from the public more than ten years ago, broadening our horizons and strengthening our commitment to sustainable technology. This move not only helped us grow but also allowed customers to be a part of the circular economy, contributing to a greener planet.

Launching The Big Phone Store: A Trailblazer in Online Retail

Spotting the Opportunity in a Changing Market

While companies like MusicMagpie started by trading in devices and then selling second-hand phones, and major mobile networks launched their own refurbished phone brands through partnerships, we spotted a unique chance to stand out. In 2016, The Big Phone Store became the first major independent refurbisher in the UK to launch its own webstore. This was a game-changer, allowing us to sell the phones we refurbished directly to consumers, cutting out the middleman and offering better deals and quality assurance.

Our Biggest Mistake: The High-Street Experiment

Learning from Our High-Street Adventure in Wolverhampton

In 2018, we took a bold step and opened a high-street shop in the heart of Wolverhampton. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but we quickly realized it wasn’t our best move. High-street shoppers tend to stick to the big, well-known brands, which are usually network-owned shops. These shops can afford to run at a loss, something many people don’t know. This is the big secret of high street phone shops – they often lose money. That’s why we’ve seen names like Carphone Warehouse, O2, and others disappearing from high streets.

Focusing on What We Do Best: Online Sales

As our website began to gain more and more attention, it became clear where our focus should be. Our online sales were skyrocketing, and it made sense to concentrate on what we were excelling at. We made the tough but necessary decision to close our Wolverhampton city centre shop and pour all our energy into our online store.

Opening Our Doors: A New Chapter in Our Physical Presence

Reinventing Our In-Person Experience

Though we closed our high-street shop, our commitment to providing an in-person experience for our customers isn’t over. As we moved away from the high-street, we saw another opportunity – to open an impressive showroom right at the front of our massive refurbishment facility. This isn’t just any showroom; it’s a window into the world of phone refurbishment, located just a short bus ride from Wolverhampton City Centre. Here, customers can see the care and expertise that goes into each device, making it a unique destination for tech enthusiasts and customers alike.

Taking Off: A Soaring Presence on Google in 2023

Riding the Wave of AI-Driven Search Changes

2023 has been a landmark year for us, especially in how we’re seen online. Google, the giant of internet search, has been changing rapidly, thanks to advancements in AI. These changes have been a boon for businesses like ours. Google is getting better at spotting sites that aren’t trustworthy and highlighting the real experts in any field. In the past, bigger websites would usually get top billing, but now, Google values specialist knowledge much more.

A Top Choice for “Refurbished Phones“

This shift has been fantastic for us. Since September, we’ve consistently been one of the top three choices on Google for “refurbished phones,” often sharing the spotlight with big names like GiffGaff. It’s a testament to our expertise and dedication to quality in the world of refurbished phones. This visibility isn’t just about being at the top; it’s about being recognized as a trusted authority in what we do.

The Future of Refurb Phones: A Bright Horizon

Refurbished Phones: More Popular Than Ever

The world of refurbished phones is bustling with excitement and growth. Big names like Apple are now selling their own refurbished iPhones, mobile networks are offering refurbished options, and large companies are drawing in investors with the promise of a refurbished future. Amidst this rush, we’re experiencing our fastest growth yet. It’s no surprise, considering we’re one of the few in the room with the genuine claim of providing refurbished phones since the 1990s.

The Perfect Storm: Inflation and Environmental Consciousness

This year, two major factors have propelled the popularity of refurbished phones: record inflation and a surge in environmental awareness. People across the UK are realizing that refurbished phones are not just as reliable as new ones, but they also offer significant savings. The trend is clear – refurbished phones are here to stay, and they’re changing the way we think about technology and value.

The Future of The Big Phone Store: Exciting Developments Ahead

What’s Next for Us

As we look to the future, we’re brimming with excitement over some upcoming announcements. Get ready for the addition of the latest Samsung phones to our collection and new, convenient payment options. Behind the scenes, we’ve been tirelessly working to make your purchasing and trade-in experience smoother and more satisfying than ever.

A Message of Gratitude and Welcome

We owe a huge thank you to all our loyal customers who have trusted us through the years. Your support has been the backbone of our success. And for those who are new to buying refurbished – welcome! We’re thrilled to have you join our community. Now, it’s our turn to show you why refurbished phones are not just a wise choice but a genuinely rewarding one.