The recent opening of new Get Connected stores in Llanelli and Wrexham was followed last weekend with another in Porth, with further store openings planned in Neath, Maesteg and Pontypridd before Christmas.
Explained Cole: "There is so much doom and gloom about the state of the economy, I feel it is important to clearly state our position to customers and staff and provide some Christmas cheer along the way. The expansion will continue and new jobs are being created. These are very exciting times for everyone associated with Get Connected."
In 1992, Cole started the business from a spare bedroom. Today, Get
Connected is the UK's second largest independent mobile phone retailer with an annual turnover of £9.5 million. The success of the Abergavenny-based business has been built around strong customer service in both the retail and corporate sector and expansion without borrowings.
"To some people our business model may be considered too conservative with so few borrowings. I was brought up to live within my means and that is the way I run the business. Some businesses in our industry have relied heavily on the banks and supplier credit and are now paying the price. Some banks don't appear able to manage their own affairs properly so why would they fair any better with ours?," added Cole.