Micro-blogging service Twitter erupted with speculation on Thursday about why Vodacom has removed its advertising hoarding at the top of Johannesburg’s iconic Ponte City tower in Hillbrow.
TechCentral has the skinny on what’s happening. The cellular operator has taken down the giant structure, which lights up Johannesburg’s skyline at night, because it will soon erect a hoarding with its new corporate logo and branding.
Well-placed industry sources have confirmed that the company will erect a new banner soon showcasing its new colours and logo. This means Vodacom could be just days away from unveiling its new brand identity.
TechCentral broke the news in November that Vodacom will soon have a fresh brand and marketing image. The details are still sketchy, but a new corporate logo is in the offing. Speculation is growing that Vodacom could adopt the bright red identity of its parent, the UK’s Vodafone.
Vodacom is not expected to change its name to Vodafone — not yet, anyway — but is likely to align its brand more closely with that of the UK telecommunications group.
Vodafone, one of the world’s largest mobile phone groups, increased its stake in Vodacom last year when it acquired a further 15% of its equity, taking its shareholding to 65%.
Vodacom spokesman Richard Boorman declined to comment. — Duncan McLeod, TechCentral
- Image: Paul Keller
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