The President of Cricket Wireless & AT&T PREPAID discusses retailer support, customer loyalty, and the leadership behind the brand.

By Kathy Katcher, CEO & Publisher, Wireless Dealer Magazine

When you speak with Angela Rittgers, it doesn’t take long to recognize the clarity and conviction she brings to every word—and every decision.

As President of the AT&T PREPAID portfolio, which includes Cricket Wireless and AT&T PREPAID, Rittgers brings more than two decades of experience across telecommunications, technology, and financial services. In this Wireless Dealer Magazine conversation, she discusses the principles guiding her leadership, the role of Authorized Retailers, and her vision for a brand built around simplicity, reliability, and meaningful customer relationships.

A Technical Foundation for Customer-Focused Leadership

Rittgers’ career began with a technical foundation. She earned a dual degree in electrical engineering and computer science from The University of Tulsa, an education she credits with shaping how she approaches business challenges.

“My background gave me a data-driven mindset,” she explains. “It’s allowed me to approach every challenge with both creativity and a technical perspective.”

That combination of analytical thinking and creativity has carried through a career spanning brand turnarounds at Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile, global marketing strategy serving 35 million merchants at PayPal, and a brand transformation at Ryan. Across those roles, her work has connected business strategy, technology, and storytelling.

“I’m passionate about leading organizations with a focus on innovation and driving results,” she told WDM.

At the center of that approach is a consistent priority: the customer.

“Whether enhancing in-store experiences or innovating digital platforms, my focus has been on delivering value and building strong, high-performing teams.”

More Than Just a Career Move

For Rittgers, joining Cricket Wireless represented an opportunity to lead a brand whose values aligned with her own.

“It gave me the opportunity to become a part of a brand and an organization that aligns with my principles and that I’ve admired for years as I watched them competitively,” she shared.

Her vision builds on Cricket’s customer-focused identity while emphasizing a clear direction for growth: simple experiences, dependable service, and strong retail relationships.

“Cricket is hyper-focused on serving our customers with a simple approach and better experiences built on a foundation of transparency and reliability,” she explained.

The company’s Authorized Retailers play a central role in delivering that experience. As Rittgers put it, “They are the backbone behind how Cricket delivers for its customers.”

Retailer Support: Up to $120,000 per Location

In the interview, Rittgers described support that can help Authorized Retailers prepare their locations and connect with customers. That includes access to up to $120,000 in marketing and store buildout support per location.

“We customize store design and resources to fit their space and vision,” she said, “ensuring they have everything needed to attract and serve customers effectively.”

The opportunity extends beyond store design. Cricket Authorized Retailers can build revenue through activations, accessory sales, device protection plans, and service add-ons. Compensation is governed by their Authorized Retailer agreement with Cricket.

Retailers maintain ownership independence and control of their operations and employees while receiving brand support. Cricket’s offering combines rate plans, devices from major brands, and AT&T’s nationwide 4G and 5G coverage.

For retailers, those resources support the day-to-day work of delivering affordable, reliable wireless service to their communities.

Stress Less. Smile More.

Cricket’s promise—“stress less. smile more.”—connects its brand identity with the experience customers have in its stores. Rittgers sees the relationship between Cricket and its Authorized Retailers as essential to fulfilling that promise.

“By working closely with the Authorized Retailers and people who are passionate about delivering outstanding customer experiences,” she said, “Cricket is able to stay true to its brand and stand apart from the competition as a trusted, friendly face in wireless.”

Customer loyalty is a central part of that strategy.

“People who come to Cricket, stay with Cricket,” Rittgers said. “That’s because we have a history of giving customers a reason to choose us, while delivering on the growth of our business.”

Her focus is on preserving the qualities customers already value while continuing to improve the offering.

“My goal is to continue to deliver on that promise—by staying true to who we are as we innovate to provide new products and services, timely promotions, and relevant perks for customers,” she shared.

Listening to Customers—and Strengthening Local Retail

Rittgers connects innovation with listening. Customer feedback helps shape decisions about the products, services, and experiences Cricket develops.

“We will continue to keep listening to our customers, ensuring their voices guide our decisions and shape our future. I aspire to make Cricket the first-choice consideration for customers by strengthening our local presence and supporting Authorized Retailers with the tools they need to succeed.”

That local presence gives Authorized Retailers an important role in the company’s long-term direction. Their customer relationships bring the brand’s promise into everyday conversations about service, devices, and value.

Rittgers described her broader ambition this way: “I want Cricket to be synonymous with simple, smart, high-quality connectivity experiences—allowing more people to experience high quality wireless without a premium price.”

Innovation Starts Inside the Organization

For Rittgers, building better customer experiences begins with the culture inside Cricket.

“I am passionate about having a growth mindset in my life and fostering a culture of innovation and growth at Cricket,” she said. “That starts by setting a clear strategy for the organization at my level and reinforcing the importance each Cricket employee has in playing their roles to deliver on that strategy.”

She encourages teams to experiment, learn, and challenge familiar approaches.

“I believe the best innovations come from teams who feel comfortable enough to take big swings and potentially strike out before they hit a home run,” she explained. “I make it a priority to communicate that I value progress over perfection and learning over doing things the way they’ve always been done.”

Investing in People and Long-Term Growth

That approach is supported by professional development, employee training, and room for teams to challenge the status quo. Data also plays an important role in identifying where the business can improve.

“We also use data-driven insights to identify opportunities for improvement, ensuring our decisions are informed, impactful, and meaningful for our customers,” Rittgers added.

Across the conversation, a consistent picture emerges: a leader connecting customer trust with retail execution and organizational growth. For Cricket’s Authorized Retailers, that vision places their role at the center of the brand’s promise—bringing simple, reliable wireless experiences to the communities they serve.

The post The President of Cricket Wireless & AT&T PREPAID discusses retailer support, customer loyalty, and the leadership behind the brand. appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

An Interview with Shahzad Mansoor, COO of Budget Wireless

By Kathy Katcher for Wireless Dealer Magazine

As Cricket Wireless continues to expand its retail footprint nationwide, Budget Wireless is offering a unique sub dealer opportunity focused on exclusive Cricket Wireless retail stores. Selecting the right Master Agent is critical to long-term dealer success, and Budget Wireless has established itself as a trusted partner for sub dealers looking to build strong, profitable Cricket Wireless stores.

Wireless Dealer Magazine sat down with Shahzad Mansoor, Chief Operating Officer of Budget Wireless, to discuss what sets the organization apart and how it helps Cricket Wireless dealers succeed.

Why should dealers interested in Cricket Wireless consider Budget Wireless as their Master Agent?

It really comes down to experience, execution, and trust. Budget Wireless has been part of the wireless industry since 1989. Over the years, we’ve seen every shift in this business—from distribution models to customer expectations—and that experience allows us to guide our dealers with confidence.

Equally important is our leadership team. We’ve built a management group with deep expertise across all aspects of wireless distribution, including retail operations, commissions, accounting, compliance, and marketing. Dealers don’t just get access to Cricket Wireless—they get a partner who understands how to build sustainable retail businesses.

What are the key success factors behind Budget Wireless’ growth as a Master Agent?

Our success is built on several core pillars:

• Wireless industry experience dating back to 1989
• A management team with deep, hands-on expertise across distribution
• A national distribution infrastructure that supports dealers in every market
• Boots on the ground nationwide, ensuring real local support—not just remote oversight
• Customized IT solutions developed in-house to drive business transformation, visibility, and efficiency
• A strong reputation in the market, earned through consistency, transparency, and follow-through

You often emphasize “quality dealers.” What does that mean in the context of Cricket Wireless?

We are very intentional about partnering with quality dealers who align with the Cricket Wireless brand. Our goal isn’t rapid expansion at the expense of customer experience. We look for dealers who are committed to delivering excellent service, building long-term customer relationships, and operating strong, compliant stores.

As a Master Agent for Cricket Wireless, our responsibility is to train, manage, and support our dealers so they consistently deliver a high level of customer experience and retention.

How does Budget Wireless support Cricket Wireless dealers after onboarding?

Support is where we truly differentiate ourselves. We focus heavily on profitability at the door level. Dealers need to know they are getting paid accurately and on time, so timely commission payments are a priority. Each location also receives dedicated accounting support, including commission reconciliation and one-on-one coaching to help dealers better understand their financial performance.

When dealers clearly understand their numbers, they can make better decisions—and that leads to healthier stores.

How does Budget Wireless help dealers compete in their local markets?

Local relevance is critical in wireless retail. Budget Wireless actively assists dealers with localized marketing strategies, taking into account both ethnic communities and geographic dynamics. Cricket Wireless serves diverse customer bases, and we help our dealers connect authentically with their local markets.

This localized approach, combined with strong operational and training support, drives higher customer satisfaction and long-term retention.

What message would you share with dealers considering joining Cricket Wireless under Budget Wireless?

If you’re looking for a Master Agent that views you as a long-term partner—not just another store—Budget Wireless is the right fit. We bring decades of experience, national infrastructure, and hands-on support, all with a clear focus on customer experience, retention, and dealer profitability.

Our mission is simple: to build strong, profitable Cricket Wireless retailers that succeed today and grow sustainably for the future.

The post appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

Wireless Dealer Magazine speaks with WiWU about its global brand, premium accessory portfolio, partner opportunities, and growing focus on U.S. wireless dealers, retailers, distributors, and channel partners.

By Richard Katcher, Wireless Dealer Magazine

In this exclusive Wireless Dealer Magazine interview, Richard Katcher spoke with WiWU about the company’s U.S. expansion and growing focus on the independent wireless marketplace. WiWU founder and CEO Jason Zhu started the company in 2011 after identifying a need for high-quality, functional mobile accessories. Since then, WiWU has built a global reputation as a technology lifestyle brand centered on thoughtful design and premium mobile accessories.

With more than 200 employees, 1,500+ SKUs, 60+ patents, 180 million+ units sold worldwide, and distribution across more than 50 countries and regions, WiWU brings significant product depth and experience to U.S. dealers, retailers, distributors, and channel partners looking for fresh accessory lines. What stood out was WiWU’s ability to offer a complete mobile lifestyle ecosystem under one brand.

A Brand Built for the Mobile Lifestyle

Guided by its mission, “Design for Mobile Lifestyle,” WiWU develops charging solutions, mobile accessories, audio products, iPad and laptop accessories, wearables, car electronics, bags, organizers, smart lifestyle devices, and creator tools. For wireless dealers, that breadth creates an opportunity to simplify sourcing while offering products that combine style, function, quality, and reliability.

WiWU Is Solving a Real Sourcing Challenge

Consumers rely on phones, tablets, laptops, wearables, and connected devices for work, travel, communication, entertainment, and daily productivity. That creates continuous demand for products that help people charge, protect, organize, listen, create, and stay connected. WiWU’s vision, “Inspire a Better Life,” guides its development of accessories for the different devices and routines that make up a mobile lifestyle.

What Problem Does WiWU Help Solve for Dealers and Distributors?

The company pointed to a challenge dealers and distributors already understand. Finding an accessory line that combines premium design, consistent quality, dependable supply, and strong margin potential can be difficult in a crowded market. Dealers often source from multiple suppliers, making purchasing, merchandising, and inventory management more complicated.

WiWU helps bridge that gap with complementary categories under one brand. Partners can simplify sourcing, strengthen product selection, improve profitability, and offer a consistent mobile lifestyle experience. From material selection and industrial design to packaging and everyday use, the company says each detail reflects its focus on craftsmanship, aesthetics, and long-term reliability.

A Global Brand Built for Partnership

A Broad Ecosystem for Dealers

WiWU’s ecosystem spans charging solutions, mobile accessories, audio and sound, iPad accessories, wearables, laptop accessories, car electronics, bags and organizers, smart lifestyle devices, and creator tools. That breadth allows dealers to build a more complete offering around customers’ phones, tablets, laptops, vehicles, travel needs, and everyday routines.

Distributors and wholesalers can carry a wider assortment while managing fewer vendor relationships. With more than 1,500 SKUs, partners can select products for different store formats, customer groups, price points, and local markets. An independent R&D team, 60+ patents, and 180 million+ units sold demonstrate the scale and experience behind the assortment.

The Dealer and Distributor Opportunity

Partnership is one of the values driving WiWU’s global growth. The company works with distributors, wholesalers, retailers, wireless dealers, and e-commerce operators, giving qualified partners access to a diversified portfolio, competitive pricing, new product launches, marketing support, product training, and dedicated account management.

Retailers can introduce thoughtfully designed accessories in their stores, distributors can expand across multiple categories, and e-commerce sellers can build online assortments around the brand. In selected markets, WiWU also establishes exclusive distribution partnerships intended to support regional businesses through long-term brand assistance and market development.

Qualified partners can explore customized products, branded solutions, private-label programs, and market-specific strategies using WiWU’s development and manufacturing experience.

Support Designed to Help Partners Sell

WiWU views its partners as an extension of its team and supports them with product catalogs, high-resolution images, marketing and promotional materials, social media content, training resources, packaging support, sales presentations, and dedicated account management. Its international team also assists with product selection, merchandising recommendations, logistics coordination, and local market development.

This support helps dealers introduce the product line, train store employees, and select assortments that fit their customers and retail environment. WiWU’s core values of Partnership, Empowerment, and Shared Growth reflect its aim to build lasting relationships with its channel partners.

Looking ahead, WiWU considers North America one of its most important growth markets. The company is expanding its distributor network and seeking retail and channel partners that share its focus on innovation, quality, and strong customer experiences. For U.S. dealers and distributors, WiWU offers global operating experience, a wide accessory ecosystem, modern design, and partner resources. Opportunities include standard retail and distribution programs, OEM and ODM projects, and exclusive relationships in selected markets.

The post WiWU Brings a Complete Mobile Lifestyle Accessory Ecosystem to the U.S. Independent Wireless Marketplace appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

Activate customers in minutes, sell from anywhere, and earn residuals for the life of the customer.
That’s what MobileX says dealers can expect as it brings the MobileX app to its dealer network.
Whether they’re in the store or on the go, dealers will be able to activate customers without being tied to a counter.

In a crowded wireless market, competitive plans are only part of what helps a dealer grow.
Retailers also need technology that simplifies sales, gives customers a reason to return, and frees staff to spend more time selling.
MobileX is bringing its app to the dealer channel to help retailers do all three.

The MobileX App Is Coming to the Dealer Channel

MobileX says dealers will continue to benefit from competitive plans and compensation as the app makes activations simpler.
Dealers will be able to help customers choose and personalize a plan wherever a sales opportunity comes up.

The app gives MobileX a platform for introducing more connected services.
As the company adds products and services, dealers will be able to offer them through the same platform,
creating opportunities to serve customers and generate revenue after the initial activation.

A Smarter Way to Serve Customers

Customers can personalize plans around how they actually use wireless and manage more of their service themselves.
The app gives them access to payments, top-ups, account management, and customer care.
They can purchase data add-ons in real time and add services such as device protection and spam blocking.

When customers can handle routine account tasks on their own, dealers have more time to help shoppers choose the right plan,
personalize their service, and find features they can use. Tools such as AutoPay can also help dealers retain customers
and develop a more predictable stream of recurring revenue.

“Wireless is evolving, and dealers need more than great plans to compete.
At MobileX, we’re giving dealers the tools they need to deliver a more personalized experience,
build customer loyalty, and grow their businesses. That’s how independent dealers continue to win.”

Peter Adderton, MobileX Founder and CEO

Investing in Dealer Success

MobileX says it has expanded to more than 5,000 retail locations nationwide. Its network of master agents
and regional account managers gives dealers access to hands-on business support, local market insight,
and people who can help them put new sales opportunities into practice.

In its dealer announcement, MobileX highlighted competitive compensation, on-time payments,
easy activations, and a flexible plan lineup for different customer needs and budgets.
The company also recognizes dealer performance through its Quarterly Dealer Awards
and annual Dealer of the Year recognition.

MobileX is giving dealers more to offer at the point of sale. Device financing through Glow can make
handsets more accessible, while handset protection through AKKO can give customers greater confidence
in their purchase. Both give dealers opportunities to earn revenue beyond the activation.

The company brings dealers together through regional events, training, and conversations with executives.
Those gatherings give retailers a chance to learn from one another and tell MobileX what they’re seeing in their markets.
Local marketing initiatives and digital resources help dealers promote offers and reach customers in their communities.

Building for What’s Next

Dealer feedback helped shape the app’s expansion into retail, informed the development of new services,
and showed MobileX where additional support could make a difference. The company plans to keep working with dealers
as it develops products, tools, and partnership programs.

MobileX sees the app as the beginning of a broader platform for connected services.
For dealers, the immediate opportunity is to activate customers wherever they sell, spend less time on routine account requests,
and give customers more reasons to return.

Get Ready for the MobileX Dealer App

Contact MobileX to find out how your business can prepare for the rollout and be among the first dealers to experience the app.

Contact MobileX Dealer Sales

Visit the MobileX Dealer Website

The post MobileX Is Putting Dealer Power Into Overdrive appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

In this exclusive interview, Wireless Dealer Magazine had the privilege of speaking with Icon Mobile’s leadership team, Sania Khan, VP of Sales, and Daniel Pinero, COO, to learn how their hands-on management style and extensive retail experience are redefining the Total Wireless store experience.

Icon Mobile recruits successful entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries whose talents and experience can transfer naturally into wireless retail ownership. The company also recruits accomplished wireless professionals who already understand the industry. By combining these two recruiting strategies, Icon Mobile significantly expands the pool of qualified prospective store owners. Khan believes welcoming entrepreneurs from different professional backgrounds brings a valuable mix of ideas, experience, and energy.

Pinero added, “That combination has been instrumental in Icon Mobile’s success during its first year as a Total Wireless Master Agent,” and went on to say, “It is not every day that a company opens more than 100 retail locations during its first year in business.”

Icon Mobile has made a significant contribution to the Total Wireless store build-out and is now pushing beyond 200 locations across six states. Icon Mobile has earned recognition as one of the region’s fastest-growing Total Wireless Master Agents.

Dealer Support From Day One

• Site selection and location review
• Store setup and training
• Launch preparation and local marketing
• Ongoing operational coaching

Building Successful Total Wireless Owners

Pinero described Icon Mobile’s mission as helping entrepreneurs and wireless retailers build profitable businesses through the Total Wireless brand. He said the company provides everything a dealer needs to launch and grow successfully, including site-selection guidance, store-development support, marketing assistance, training, operational coaching, and ongoing business consulting. Icon Mobile works with experienced wireless operators as well as first-time business owners looking for the right opportunity in wireless retail.

“What the industry should know is that we are not just focused on opening stores. We are focused on building successful, long-term businesses. When our dealers win, we win,” Pinero explained.

Khan said the wireless industry is experiencing a major change as consumers look for better value. Premium prepaid brands like Total Wireless are gaining momentum because they deliver exceptional network quality at a more affordable price point. She added that many independent retailers are searching for stronger opportunities with better economics, stronger support, and a clearer path to growth. “That is where Icon Mobile comes in.”

Why the Total Wireless Opportunity Is Timely

We then discussed why Icon Mobile’s offering matters in the current wireless market. Pinero framed the answer around the larger business shift taking place in wireless. Consumers are paying closer attention to value, yet they still expect reliable network performance, professional service, and a premium retail experience. He sees that combination creating strong momentum for Total Wireless.

“The wireless industry is experiencing a major shift. Consumers are looking for better value, and premium prepaid brands like Total Wireless are gaining momentum because they deliver exceptional network quality at a more affordable price point.”

Khan connected that market shift to the conversations taking place with retailers and entrepreneurs. Many independent wireless retailers are reconsidering what they need from a carrier relationship and a Master Agent. Economics are important, but so are guidance, accessibility, operational support, and a realistic path to growth.

“Many independent retailers are searching for stronger opportunities with better economics, stronger support, and a clearer path to growth. That’s where Icon Mobile comes in,” Khan told me.

Pinero explained, “We help dealers capitalize on one of the most exciting growth opportunities in wireless today by combining the strength of the Total Wireless brand with hands-on support and business development expertise.”

For WDM readers, the timing of that message is significant. Many dealers are looking for an opportunity that gives them a stronger retail identity and the support structure needed to build a scalable business.

The Wireless Trends Dealers Should Watch

Our conversation also turned to the sales and customer trends Icon Mobile believes dealers should be watching. Khan pointed first to the continued demand for value without a reduction in experience. Consumers want competitive pricing, but they also expect strong network performance and excellent service. That creates an opportunity for retailers who can present value clearly and deliver a customer experience that builds trust.

Khan also pointed to growing demand for home internet solutions, device financing, protection products, and bundled services. These categories give retailers opportunities to serve more of each customer’s needs while developing recurring revenue and stronger long-term relationships. Her most important advice for dealers was to look beyond the initial activation.

“For dealers, the biggest opportunity is focusing on customer lifetime value rather than simply chasing activations.”

An activation may begin the relationship, but the long-term value is created through service, retention, upgrades, additional products, referrals, and repeat visits. Dealers who build trust and continue serving the customer are better positioned to create durable revenue and a stronger local reputation.

Multi-Store Growth

From 100+ locations in its first year to 200+ stores and growing.

Within its first year as a Master Agent, Icon Mobile helped launch more than 100 Total Wireless locations across multiple markets. Many of those dealers have continued expanding and are now opening additional locations. Icon Mobile has since grown to more than 200 stores nationwide. “What makes these success stories meaningful is that they represent entrepreneurs creating jobs, serving their communities, and building long-term businesses,” Khan said. Pinero added, “Our growth is a direct reflection of the success of our dealer partners.”

Multi-State Growth and Market Expansion

“Since launching Icon Mobile, we have grown from a startup operation into a multi-state organization supporting dealers across Texas, California, Arizona, Missouri, Kansas, Louisiana, and additional growth markets,” Pinero said. Khan added, “We opened more than 100 locations in our first year and have continued expanding aggressively while maintaining a strong focus on dealer support and operational excellence.” Pinero brought the message back to scaling dealers, saying, “More importantly, we have built a reputation for helping dealers scale. Our success is measured not only by store openings but by the long-term success of the businesses we help create.”

Building Multi-Store Operators

“Our goal is not simply to sign dealers. Our goal is to help them grow into multi-store operators,” Pinero said. Multi-store growth requires financial discipline, operating systems, staffing, management development, sales tracking, performance analysis, and the ability to repeat success across locations. Pinero closed with Icon Mobile’s mission. “Our mission is simple: help great people build great businesses. We are committed to providing the support, resources, and partnership necessary to help dealers succeed today and scale for tomorrow.”

Learn more at Icon Mobile

The post How Icon Mobile Helps Dealers Build and Grow Total Wireless Stores appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

Inside SurgePays’ platform & partner-first bet on the wireless dealer channel, with VP of Sales Allison Seyler

Written by Kathy Katcher, CEO & Publisher, Wireless Dealer Magazine

Wireless Dealer Magazine recently had the privilege of sitting down with Allison Seyler, Vice President of Sales for SurgePays. A powerhouse in FinTech and telecom with more than 15 years of experience, Seyler brings a strong background in building strategic partnerships, driving revenue growth, and helping businesses scale inside the wireless and prepaid marketplace.

In this WDM feature, Seyler takes readers inside the SurgePays.io and LinkUp Mobile opportunity, showing how retailers are leveraging prepaid wireless, top-ups, managed marketing services, BPO services, and retail technology to drive long-term growth. The feature also highlights what sets the partnership apart: Build Your Own Plans, Direct Partnership, White-Glove Support, and a Full Growth Platform designed to help retailers launch, scale, and succeed.

The conversation opened with Seyler’s background and the experience that led her to her role as Vice President of Sales at SurgePays. Her career has placed her directly in the middle of the partnerships, accounts, retailers, and carrier relationships that shaped growth in FinTech, telecom, and prepaid wireless.

“I’ve spent over 15 years in FinTech and telecommunications sales, primarily focused on building strategic partnerships, driving revenue growth, and helping businesses scale within the wireless and prepaid space,” Seyler shared. “Throughout my career, I’ve managed high-volume corporate accounts and worked closely with retailers to create long-term growth opportunities.”

Her path to SurgePays was driven by more than industry experience. After years of working across FinTech, telecom, prepaid wireless, and strategic partnerships, Seyler saw an opportunity to bring that background into a company focused on serving retailers and channel partners in a more meaningful way.

That mission shows up in practical retail conversations. Many retailers already have strong neighborhood relationships, daily customer interaction, and the trust that comes from serving their communities. SurgePays looks for ways to turn those existing strengths into new service opportunities.

“What led me to SurgePays was the opportunity to help independent retailers thrive. We have the technology, the products, and the support to help stores add new revenue without adding unnecessary complexity.” Seyler said.

“Today, my focus is making sure our partners have everything they need to succeed, from the right tools to the right support. We’re not just here to sign partners; we’re here to help them grow.”

Allison Seyler, Vice President of Sales at SurgePays

“What excites me most is seeing the real impact SurgePays solutions can have on businesses,” Seyler explained. “A lot of retailers are looking for ways to make more money without dramatically changing their existing operations, and prepaid wireless, top-ups, and Managed Marketing services create exactly that opportunity.”

For Seyler, the most rewarding part is seeing partners succeed beyond the initial launch. From onboarding to ongoing support, SurgePays works alongside retailers to help them grow, adapt, and build long-term success, not just make a first sale.

“I love helping retailers discover new income streams, increase customer traffic, and build recurring revenue models that strengthen their business over time,” Seyler said. “When a retailer starts seeing repeat wireless customers coming back every month, or when an ISO realizes they can expand beyond traditional merchant services, that’s exciting because it creates long-term value and stability for their business.”

As the discussion turned to revenue, Seyler pointed to a major shift taking place across the retail landscape. Businesses want more than an occasional sale. They are looking for offerings that keep customers engaged beyond the first visit.

“Recurring revenue is one of the biggest opportunities in the market today,” Seyler said. “One of the things that really sets LinkUp apart is Build Your Own Plans,” Seyler said. “As our dealers grow, they earn the ability to create their own wireless plan tiers based on what their customers actually need. That’s not something you’ll get from the major carriers. It helps our partners differentiate their business instead of selling the exact same plans as everyone else.”

For retailers that flexibility creates a competitive advantage. Instead of offering the same wireless plans as every other provider, partners can deliver plans tailored to their market while expanding their business with a differentiated, recurring revenue solution.

“Prepaid is just the beginning,” Seyler said. “What makes SurgePays different is that we give partners a complete growth platform. Along with wireless, they gain access to Managed Marketing Services, BPO support, our Merchant Portal and Payment Center, and retail programs like Phone in a Box.” Seyler explained. “It’s all designed to help partners launch faster, grow smarter, and create more value for the businesses they serve.”

“Our retailers earn the ability to create their own wireless plan tiers based on what their customers actually need. That’s not something you’ll get from the major carriers.” Seyler said.

“Through prepaid wireless activations, top-ups, gift cards, digital products, and retail technology solutions, retailers can create multiple revenue streams from a single platform.”

The next layer of the conversation centered on the platform itself and how partners can turn a single retailer relationship into a broader retail-service strategy.

At the store counter, the strategy moves from theory to traffic. The moment a customer returns for an essential service, the retailer has another opportunity to serve that customer and increase the value of the visit.

“What makes it powerful is that these services also help drive customer frequency,” Seyler shared. “A customer coming in for top-ups, prepaid wireless service, or gift cards creates additional opportunities for cross-selling and increased in-store spending,” Seyler said. “It becomes more than just a transaction, it becomes a customer retention strategy, backed by our in-house bilingual 24/7 support team to help partners deliver a better customer experience.”

The wireless component of that strategy is LinkUp Mobile, powered by SurgePays. It brings the recurring retail opportunity into a service category every retailer understands: connectivity.

“LinkUp Mobile gives partners the ability to participate in one of the strongest recurring revenue categories in retail today,” Seyler said. “Wireless is essential, customers need connectivity every single month, and that creates a consistent opportunity for retailers and channel partners.”

White-Glove Support · Direct Partnership · Build Your Own Plans · Full Growth Platform

Become a Partner Today: Enjoy higher margins, top-ups, white-glove onboarding, and 24/7 bilingual support, all backed by the SurgePays platform to help drive traffic, build customer loyalty, and create recurring revenue.

For a partner, launching wireless is only one part of the opportunity. The bigger question is whether the program provides the structure needed to keep growing after the first activation. Seyler says that is where LinkUp Mobile’s partner support becomes especially important.

“What makes LinkUp Mobile stand out is the combination of competitive plans, strong network quality, partner support, and flexible distribution opportunities,” Seyler explained. “We focus heavily on supporting our partners with white-glove onboarding, 24/7 bilingual customer service, operational support, and custom plans that help them succeed long term. When you go direct with SurgePays, you’re not just adding new revenue streams, you’re gaining a partner that’s committed to helping your business grow.”

For retailers, these services can change how customers see the store. The location becomes more than a place to buy a single product; it becomes a place customers associate with practical daily needs.

“The key is creating reasons for customers to return consistently,” Seyler said. “Wireless payments, prepaid top-ups, digital products, and related services naturally bring customers back on a recurring basis.”

Seyler also pointed to what happens after the second, third, and fourth visit. Over time, those small repeat interactions change the economics of the customer relationship.

The results are already speaking for themselves. “I joined SurgePays in March 2024. Since then, LinkUp Mobile has grown from its launch on AT&T to more than 200,000 active subscribers. That kind of growth doesn’t happen by accident, it happens when retailers get the right model in their hands,” Seyler said.

Those milestones, Seyler added, reflect what happens when the right products meet the right partnership. “Our focus is helping retailers and partners grow, and these results show what’s possible when they have the flexibility, support, and platform to succeed.”

The conversation then moved to one of the biggest challenges facing retailers today: how to scale growth without building every department internally. SurgePays is focused on the operational side of that challenge, with services designed to help partners increase visibility, manage outreach, and support customer acquisition more efficiently.

“Scaling today requires more than just selling a product; it requires infrastructure, support, and efficiency,” Seyler said. “Managed Marketing Services help partners increase visibility, customer acquisition, and brand awareness without needing to build large internal marketing teams.

“As partners grow, marketing becomes just as important as sales. Our Managed Marketing Services give retailers access to professional marketing support without the cost of building an in-house team. From campaign strategy and creative development to execution, we help partners stay visible, attract new customers, and keep existing ones engaged.”

For many retailers, having dedicated marketing expertise is out of reach. Managed Marketing Services fill that gap, allowing partners to focus on running their business while SurgePays helps drive awareness, customer engagement, and store traffic.

“Our BPO services model is another major advantage because it allows retailers to scale operationally without the overhead of traditional hiring,” Seyler explained. “Partners can purchase dedicated support seats through us, giving them trained team members who operate as an extension of their business. These dedicated resources can assist with customer service, lead generation, cold calling, account management, customer acquisition, follow-up support, and ongoing relationship management.”

By this point in the conversation, the pieces began to connect. Wireless platform services, marketing support, operational help, and retail technology are designed to work together rather than sit in separate silos.

“Everything we offer is designed to work together,” Seyler said. “From Build Your Own Plans and Managed Marketing Services to dedicated BPO support and retail technology, our goal is to give partners a complete platform they can grow with, not just another product to sell.”

Throughout the conversation, one theme remained consistent: SurgePays isn’t simply expanding its product portfolio. It’s building long-term partnerships that help retailers grow with the infrastructure, support, and flexibility they need to compete in a rapidly evolving market.

“Our goal has never been to be just another wireless provider,” Seyler said. “We’re building a platform that gives our partners the flexibility to compete, the support to scale, and the confidence to grow. When our partners succeed, that’s how we measure our success.”

As the prepaid wireless industry continues to evolve, Seyler believes the greatest opportunities will belong to businesses that embrace innovation, stay close to their customers, and choose partners committed to long-term growth. For SurgePays, that isn’t just a strategy, it’s the foundation of every partnership.

As the conversation concluded, WDM asked Seyler how interested partners can learn more about LinkUp Mobile powered by SurgePays and its retail platform, and what the first step looks like.

Learn More at SurgePays

The post Prepaid Is Just the Beginning appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

Building a Total Wireless Retail Business With Paramount Wireless USA

By Wireless Dealer Magazine

Opening a wireless store takes more than choosing a brand. Retailers need a partner who can help them prepare, support their teams, and navigate the work of building a business. In a conversation with Wireless Dealer Magazine, Rummy Sangha, CEO and founder of Paramount Wireless USA, explained how the company approaches that relationship for Total Wireless branded prepaid stores.

Investing in the Retail Partner

Sangha described investing in partners’ success as Paramount’s first priority. Whether an operator is preparing to open a single store or expand into multiple locations, the company’s focus is on providing a strong distribution partnership in the prepaid wireless industry.

That support includes field assistance, training, and marketing guidance. For prospective store owners, those resources can help connect the opportunity to the practical work involved in operating a retail location.

Experience, Support, and Store Growth

Paramount has more than 30 years of industry experience, 310-plus stores launched, and another 70-plus stores in process.

Sangha emphasized the role of Paramount’s technical team and described around-the-clock support as part of its partner offering. Alongside training and field support, the company positions that assistance as a resource for operators pursuing growth in a competitive wireless market.

A Conversation About Your Next Store

For existing wireless retailers and entrepreneurs considering Total Wireless retail ownership, Paramount Wireless USA offers an opportunity to discuss the support available for a new location or a multi-store expansion.

Sangha’s message to potential partners centers on a shared goal: helping retailers build their businesses through an ongoing distribution relationship. Prospective operators can contact Paramount to explore the program and discuss how it fits their plans.

Explore Paramount Wireless USA →

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The post 310+ Stores Launched: Inside Paramount Wireless USA’s Total Wireless Retail Opportunity appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

Giving Dealers a Simpler Path to Multi-Carrier Growth

By Kathy Katcher | Wireless Dealer Magazine

Independent wireless dealers are operating in a marketplace that continues to grow more complex. Customers want more carrier choices, more prepaid options, more digital products, and more flexibility – but managing multiple carrier relationships can quickly become overwhelming for small and mid-sized retailers.

CTI Wireless Group was built to simplify that process. Founded in 2018, CTI Wireless Group is a national wireless distribution company and master agent that gives independent retailers, convenience stores, and multi-location operators access to leading wireless brands through one managed partner relationship. Through established carrier agreements, CTI provides access to AT&T Prepaid, Cricket Wireless, T-Mobile, Verizon, MobileX, and other wireless providers, along with domestic and international prepaid services, eSIM solutions, airtime top-ups, digital gift cards, and prepaid payment products.

For dealers, that structure matters. Instead of managing separate carrier agreements, different onboarding requirements, multiple commission structures, and separate support channels, CTI brings access, support, and product expansion into one streamlined program.

Carrier Access With Practical Dealer Support

Carrier access is the starting point. CTI’s master-agent relationship connects dealers with major prepaid and wireless brands, while onboarding guidance helps retailers organize program requirements, activation workflows, and the practical steps involved in getting started.

That support extends into day-to-day retail execution. CTI provides relationships, tools, and store growth support, giving dealers a central contact for carrier programs, questions, support needs, and follow-up. The approach brings partner coordination into the same relationship that provides access to the programs.

CTI Wireless Group connects independent retailers to multiple carrier programs, prepaid products, and support through one managed relationship.

ONE MANAGED RELATIONSHIP

Supporting Dealers, Retail Groups, and Distributors

CTI serves several types of wireless businesses. For independent dealers, its offering includes store-level support for activations, accessories, and service plans. Retail groups can explore programs built for multi-location teams and regional growth, while distributors can access partner support, carrier relationships, and field-level execution.

The common thread is one managed relationship. As retailers respond to customers seeking more choice in carriers, prepaid services, and digital products, CTI’s approach brings access and support together so dealers can focus on serving customers and growing their businesses.

Become a CTI Wireless Dealer →

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The post America’s Most Trusted Master Agent appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

By Wireless Dealer Magazine

A business-building partnership designed to guide operators from market selection and grand opening through first-year profitability and multi-store growth.

More Than a Store Opening

Once retailers understand who Victra is, the next question is what it means to open a Total Wireless store with the company. The opportunity is not positioned simply as a store opening. It is designed as a business-building partnership.

Many wireless opportunities provide access to a brand and little more. The Victra Total Wireless Exclusive Retailer Program combines that access with decades of operating experience and a proven framework for helping retailers launch, grow, and scale successful stores.

Before the doors open, Victra helps guide the decisions that shape long-term success, including market selection, site identification and approval, store design and buildout, training and onboarding, marketing preparation, grand-opening execution, and ongoing operational support. That support continues through fixtures, merchandising, marketing, and field leadership. Retailers retain ownership of their business while using an operating model built from years of wireless retail experience.

Strong operators know wireless retail is about more than selling phones. They choose the right location, build a capable team, earn customer trust, and consistently execute proven retail fundamentals. Victra helps them focus on those priorities from day one.

The First-Year Profit Opportunity

Successful stores are not built on opening day. They take shape through disciplined execution throughout the first year, when the operator turns a launch plan into a stable, repeatable business.

Retailers should treat year one as an investment in long-term growth. Although every market and operator differs, top-performing stores tend to excel in five areas: location, staffing, local marketing, customer experience, and owner involvement. Together, these factors determine how quickly a store gains traction and establishes consistent revenue.

Location is the first critical decision. Visibility, traffic, access, and favorable demographics create an advantage, but the site cannot compensate for an underprepared team. Well-trained employees build trust, explain products clearly, and deliver strong customer experience, directly influencing acquisition, retention, and overall performance.

Owner engagement is another differentiator, especially in the first year. Strong operators review performance, coach employees, monitor key metrics, and address problems quickly. Those who treat the business as passive income often struggle to gain momentum. Local marketing also matters. Community outreach, grand-opening events, local partnerships, digital advertising, and regular neighborhood engagement help build awareness and generate traffic.

First year’s profitability depends less on a single earnings target than on consistent execution. Retailers who strengthen training, operations, customer satisfaction, and repeatable processes are better positioned to improve performance in year two and expand when the business is ready.

Stronger Operators Build Stronger Businesses

The difference between a strong operation and a weak one is rarely a single decision. It is the accumulation of daily habits: following the system, tracking performance, investing in people, creating traffic, and correcting problems before they become expensive.

Selecting the right location is one of a retailer’s most important decisions. No site guarantees success, but disciplined evaluation can improve the odds of building a profitable, sustainable store.

Victra begins with the market, analyzing population density, household income, workforce trends, and projected growth to determine whether the customer base can support a Total Wireless store over time. Healthy residential growth and strong employment activity may matter more than low rent alone.

The evaluation then turns to visibility and access. Strong locations are often on busy retail corridors where customers can see the store, enter the center easily, and park conveniently. Traffic counts, anchor tenants, nearby businesses, and shopping patterns help estimate how many potential customers pass the site each day.

Nearby wireless competitors also matter. Existing competition can confirm demand; the key is whether Total Wireless can stand out through Verizon’s network, value, and customer experience. The economics must work as well. Occupancy costs, rent-to-sales expectations, signage, buildout needs, and operating expenses all affect long-term profitability.

Finally, Victra considers demand for drivers such as schools, employers, grocery stores, transportation routes, and community gathering places that can generate recurring traffic. The goal is to help retailers choose markets based on data, operating experience, and wireless expertise—not instinct alone.

The First-Year Success Blueprint

The first year is often the most demanding stage of a wireless retail business. Opening day matters, but long-term success depends on the months that follow. Most retailers are not simply learning to run a store; they are learning to build a sustainable business. Victra’s support therefore continues well beyond launch.

Support That Continues After Opening Day

Before launch, Victra helps retailers complete market analysis, site selection, design, fixtures, onboarding, training, merchandising, and opening preparation. This structured work gives operators a practical plan, clearer responsibilities, and realistic expectations before the first customer arrives. It also reduces avoidable delays and gives the owner and store team time to address issues before opening day.

After opening, the focus shifts to execution. Success requires more than product knowledge: operators must recruit and develop employees, understand performance metrics, manage inventory, maintain merchandising standards, earn customer loyalty, and establish consistent processes. Dedicated field leaders, trainers, and ongoing coaching help them work through these challenges and grow more confident as owners.

Training covers products, promotions, compliance, customer service, consultative selling, and operating practices. Continued learning helps teams adapt as offers, procedures, customer needs, and business priorities evolve.

This support reduces trial and error. Drawing on decades of wireless retail experience and lessons from hundreds of store openings, Victra can guide retailers toward practices that have worked elsewhere. Operators keep control of their business while gaining a network that helps them make better decisions, solve problems faster, and build momentum. Regular check-ins help operators identify weak spots early, set priorities, and apply fixes before small issues become costly.

Year One vs. Year Two

Year one shows retailers how their business performs in its specific market. Plans, projections, and training provide a roadmap, but day-to-day experience reveals what works.

Operators learn which plans, products, promotions, and outreach methods resonate with local customers, what drives store traffic, and how customers prefer to engage across seasons and promotional cycles. They can use those insights to sharpen marketing and operations in year two.

They also learn the value of disciplined daily execution: coaching employees, monitoring KPIs, delivering a strong customer experience, and maintaining store standards. By year two, these behaviors should be repeatable processes rather than new lessons.

Owners also learn what team development requires: whom to hire, how to coach, and how to create a culture of accountability. As the team matures, the owner can spend less time working in the store and more time improving the business.

Payroll, inventory, advertising effectiveness, expenses, and profit drivers also become clearer. Traffic, conversion, product mix, retention, and profitability data give retailers a better view of performance. By year two, committed retailers should have a stronger team, better market knowledge, proven processes, and discipline to improve profitability.

Building a Foundation for Expansion

Successful retailers think beyond opening one store. They build a business designed to grow, scale, and create long-term value. Opening a location is a transaction; creating an operation that can support several locations is a strategy.

That strategy requires a repeatable operating model: clear processes, consistent customer service, effective training, and systems that can be documented and duplicated as the business grows. The foundation must work even when the owner is not present.

People are central to that model. Today’s sales associate may become a store manager and, later, a multi-unit leader. By recruiting, coaching, and retaining strong employees from the start, retailers build a leadership bench and create the capacity to expand.

Community involvement helps support long-term growth. Strong operators join local events, support neighborhood organizations, build relationships with nearby businesses, and position their stores as trusted technology resources. When customers see the store as part of the community, loyalty grows and referrals become a source of traffic.

Year one reveals what works. Year two turns those lessons into repeatable performance.

Disciplined management turns that foundation into growth. Strong retailers understand their performance metrics, watch trends and expenses, and improve operations. Long-term growth rarely comes from one exceptional month; it is usually the result of consistent execution and steady improvement.

Expansion should be deliberate. Before opening a second store, the first should demonstrate consistent performance, strong customer satisfaction, stable staffing, sound operations, and reliable cash flow. It should also run at a high level without constant owner involvement, making the next location easier to support.

The goal is not simply to own a store, but to build a scalable platform. Retailers who focus on people, process, customer experience, and operational excellence create a Total Wireless business that can keep growing.

Who Is the Ideal Retailer?

The ideal Total Wireless retailer thinks like an operator, not merely a store owner. Strong partners may be franchise owners, multi-unit operators, wireless dealers, or experienced retail entrepreneurs who know how to build teams, follow proven processes, and grow a business over time.

Wireless experience helps, but it is not the deciding factor. Work ethic, a customer-first mindset, financial discipline, and commitment to operational excellence matter more. Successful retailers stay involved, hold their teams accountable, and are willing to follow a structured growth model.

The best candidates want to build beyond one location. They see the opportunity as a platform for multi-store growth and value strong brand support, proven systems, training, marketing assistance, and a clear path to expansion. The ideal partner brings leadership, drive, and local market knowledge, while Victra provides the infrastructure, support, and operating experience needed to build a durable Total Wireless business.

Why Victra? Why Now?

Consumers continue to look for reliable service, clear pricing, and value. Total Wireless meets those needs, while Victra brings decades of retail experience, disciplined site selection, proven systems, training, merchandising, marketing resources, and field support. Victra is more than a master agent; it is an experienced operator. Retailers gain a tested business model and a clear path to growth while retaining ownership of their business.

Prime markets and locations are being identified now; retailers who move early can establish a local presence. Experienced wireless dealers, multi-unit operators, and growth-minded entrepreneurs should evaluate how Total Wireless fits into their long-term business strategy.

Learn More About Victra →

The post Victra Secures the Lease Locations Others Can’t: Your Path to Owning a Total Wireless Store appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.

By Kathy Katcher

Independent wireless retailers have always been the backbone of our industry. They serve their communities, solve customer problems, activate devices, explain technology, and often know their customers by name. They are entrepreneurs who create local jobs, invest in their neighborhoods, and provide a level of personal service that large national brands simply can’t replicate.

Yet despite the critical role they play, today’s independent retailers face mounting challenges. Margins continue to tighten. Customer expectations continue to rise. Dealers are expected to master new technologies, manage multiple vendors, and compete in an increasingly digital marketplace—all while continuing to deliver exceptional customer service.

Ping Holdings believes it’s time someone fought for the retailer.

According to the company, that belief isn’t simply a marketing message—it’s the philosophy that has shaped Ping from the beginning and continues to guide every product, partnership, and program it develops.

A Different Kind of Partner

Many companies in the wireless industry begin by asking, “How can we sell another product?”

Ping starts with a different question:

“How can we help retailers build more profitable businesses?”

That simple philosophy has become the foundation of the company’s approach. Whether developing technology, launching dealer programs, sourcing devices, supporting enterprise partners, or creating new revenue opportunities, Ping says every decision begins with the same objective: helping independent retailers attract more customers, generate more revenue, and build stronger businesses.

The company believes retailer success creates a ripple effect throughout the industry. Consumers receive better service. Enterprise partners benefit from stronger execution and broader market reach. Local communities benefit from thriving small businesses that continue investing where they live and work.

More Than Technology

Technology continues to transform nearly every aspect of retail, but Ping believes technology alone isn’t the answer.

Retailers aren’t looking for another portal to log into or another software platform to learn. They’re looking for practical solutions that help them bring more customers through the door, create new revenue opportunities, improve operational efficiency, and spend more time serving customers instead of managing systems.

In Ping’s view, technology should remove friction—not create it.

That philosophy has led the company to build an integrated platform designed around retailer success rather than individual products. Today, Ping’s growing platform includes Ping Prepay, Ping POS, Ping Market, Ping ProCare, the Ping Master Agent Program, and PingNation, all working together to help retailers simplify operations while creating new opportunities for growth.

The Retailer Advocate

When asked what differentiates Ping from other companies serving the wireless channel, the answer wasn’t a specific product or technology.

It was philosophy.

Ping believes independent retailers deserve an advocate—one that looks beyond the next activation, values long-term relationships over short-term transactions, understands that retailer profitability matters, and continues investing in its partners long after the initial agreement is signed.

That philosophy ultimately led to the company’s brand position: The Retailer Advocate.

According to Ping, it’s more than a tagline. It’s a commitment.

Whether helping retailers maximize industry-leading prepaid wireless compensation, providing operational technology, sourcing devices, delivering customer support, or creating new growth opportunities, the company’s mission remains unchanged: helping independent retailers build stronger, more profitable businesses.

Building a Platform for Growth

The wireless industry continues to evolve, and retailers need more than activations to compete successfully.

They need partners capable of supporting every stage of their business.

That’s why Ping has built an integrated platform that brings together wireless services, retail technology, customer support, device services, dealer programs, and future commerce initiatives into one connected experience.

The company says the goal isn’t to create more complexity.

It’s to eliminate it. Rather than offering another standalone solution, Ping has focused on building a platform that helps retailers operate more efficiently, serve customers more effectively, and grow more profitably.

Looking Ahead

Wireless has always been about connecting people. The next chapter will be about connecting opportunities.

As the lines between wireless, retail, technology, customer experience, and digital commerce continue to blur, Ping believes independent retailers are uniquely positioned to thrive—provided they have the right partner beside them.

The company remains committed to helping build that future: one where enterprise brands gain stronger execution, consumers receive exceptional service, technology simplifies rather than complicates, and independent retailers have every opportunity to succeed.

Ultimately, Ping says success isn’t measured by the technology it builds.

It’s measured by the businesses it helps grow. The company’s mission is straightforward:

• Help independent retailers attract more customers.
• Help independent retailers earn more money.
• Help independent retailers achieve more growth.

For Ping, that’s more than a business strategy.

It’s why the company exists. It’s why Ping fights for retailers.

“At Ping, we believe the future belongs to organizations that bridge the gap between digital innovation and real-world commerce. That future will be built alongside independent retailers—not around them.”

Learn More About Ping →

The post The Retailer Advocate: How Ping Fights for You appeared first on Wireless Dealer Magazine.