In a bit of a surprise move, Telus has announced the acquisition of Blacks Photo Corporation, which owns a chain of photography and camera shops in retail locations across the country. Telus plans to offer its digital wireless solutions through the chain of 113 retail locations once the purchase is completed.
"Black's premium locations provide an established network across Canada for the distribution of TELUS' wireless products, which nicely complements our extensive network of dealers and stores. In anticipation of our clients' evolving needs and as more wireless devices have imbedded high quality photo and video capability, there is a natural link between TELUS and Black's."-Joe Natale, executive-vice president and president, TELUS Consumer SolutionsWhile there is an obvious need for wireless data devices if you plan to send digital photos while on the go, the list of synergies between the two companies seems rather short. Until more cameras start being released with wireless data cards built right into them, this will still be two separate product lines being carried in 1 location.
With the announcement of Telus migrating to a Long Term Evolution (LTE) data network in the new year, they may be strategically planning ahead with products designed to take advantage of the network, however the number of cameras that have been released that offer any kind of wireless data transfer are quite slim. More likely this is an attempt by Telus to keep up with Bell, who recently purchased "The Source" chain of consumer electronic stores.
While the idea of increasing the number of locations in which you can purchase a product seems like a good idea, it will also serve to water down the existing locations. Many retail malls and locations that currently have a Blacks Photography probably have a Telus dealer or corporate store nearby. Time will tell whether this is a great opportunity to merge consumer electronics and wireless data products, or just a case of "keeping up with the Jones". for Telus.
