Internet services provider Gradwell has launched Gradwell Mobile, a new mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that enables users to make and receive calls with their standard business landline number whilst on the move.

Officials with Gradwell said that Gradwell Mobile PBX (News - Alert) will remove the need for businesses to hold separate mobile and landline numbers. 

Instead of the typical 07 mobile number, a Gradwell SIM card has a more traditional geographic landline number (01, 02, 03, 08) assigned to it. 

Customers can call and text to and from this number.

Company officials said that when used in conjunction with Gradwell’s hosted PBX service, Gradwell Mobile offers even more functionality including-Integrating the mobile handset as an extension on the business’ switchboard; allowing customers to control calls to their mobile using advanced business tools, such as time of day routing, voice menus and queues and offering a single voicemail mailbox between the users’ desk and mobile phone.

According to company officials, Gradwell Mobile uses the 3G network provided by 3UK, in conjunction with aql.

Other key features include being able to use many call route options, so the user can divert calls to their mobile by time of day, and that the handset doesn’t use VoIP, which can be difficult to use on a mobile phone, as it’s completely GSM or a Mobile Network Solution.

The service works with any unlocked 3G handset that use normal SIM cards

“This is the perfect system for business people who are on the move, ensuring they can be contacted quickly and efficiently, and avoiding the need to check both landline and mobile phone voicemail messages,” said Peter Gradwell, founder and managing director of Gradwell, in a statement. 

Gradwell said that it’s also valuable to small businesses and sole traders, meaning that those without a physical office can still benefit from the professional image associated with use of a landline number rather than a mobile number.

"We’re delighted to be working with the Three mobile network and their MVNO enabler, aql, to launch this new strand of the business and blazing a trail for the industry”, he said.

“It's a really exciting development to be involved with and having spoken to many existing Gradwell customers, I’m sure this will prove to be hugely popular," said Gradwell.

Gradwell provides flexible, tailored communications solutions to small businesses throughout the UK, including internet telephony, broadband, web hosting and email management.

Dr Adam Beaumont, managing director of aql said that Gradwell are a highly capable partner and have taken the company’s wholesale service and bolted-on a massive amount of functionality and value. 

“Every small business needs this service and we’re excited to see the level of impact that such a groundbreaking product will have on the mobile marketplace," said Dr Beaumont.