EMPLOYEES at the Swindon-based Cellular Operations Ltd were today assured it would be business as usual, despite a takeover by Vodafone UK Limited for an undisclosed sum.

The firm, which provides mobile airtime services to more than half a million people, currently employs more than 500 staff.

Vodafone has said it will be business as usual at the Hillmead plant, although a detailed review of the business will be undertaken, the results of which should be made known by early May.

In the meantime, Tim Bean will take over as general manager from Ric Lee, departing chairman, and Nigel Bunter, managing director.

The company, which earlier last year helped BT Cellnet relaunch itself as O2, refused to comment on the buyout or its implications for the workforce.

It is also unknown how the buyout will affect the work of the highly successful Motability and General Information Centre (MAGIC), which symbolised Cellular's close connections with the Ford Motor Company, a customer for which it provides a package of customer administration services.

The MAGIC call centre provides free and comprehensive information on motoring, mobility and vehicle adaptation for motorists with disabilities and boasts a 50-strong workforce.

Stephen Brewer, managing director for Vodafone Sales and Distribution, said of the mobile phone giant's latest acquisition: "The economics of our industry are rapidly changing and this is one of the moves that we are making in the market as part of our distribution strategy that is designed to build an even closer relationship with our customers.

"The acquisition of this quality service provision business gives Vodafone direct access to 375,000 more of our customers, enabling us to get closer to them with our customer propositions, like Vodafone Live."

Cellular Operations Ltd is probably best known in Swindon for the futuristic, hi-tech design of its company headquarters.

Dubbed the glass cigar, the offices have won many awards, including one for their themed toilets.