After reports this morning that 2degrees had secured a massive $30 million investment from shareholders, it’s emerged that the company has plans to open 30 retail stores across New Zealand in the next 12 months.

Chief Sales Officer Mark Cleary, said, “People are saying that the retail sector is still struggling and hasn’t really emerged from the recession. We’re proud to be bucking the trend as one of the few New Zealand companies making new investments in retail.”

Cleary said the firm would have in excess of 30 stores open by this time next year. They’ll be a mix of 2degrees owned and accredited dealer operated stores. The two new stores opening this weekend are part of the first wave.

Simon Jamieson, Director, Corona Communications Ltd owns the new Westgate store while Lailun Khan from Pacific Mobile owns the Manukau spot.

2degrees opened its first retail store in Sylvia Park, Auckland on October 13th, followed by stores Newmarket, Auckland and Wellington.

A 2degrees-owned Christchurch store is coming soon.

200 new jobs are expected to be created with the opening of the new stores.