JOBS could be lost in Hull after Phones 4U announced it had been forced into administration.
The retailer operates 550 stores across the UK, including three in Hull city centre , and employs 5,596 people.
All mobile contracts bought through the company will remain unaffected and the networks will continue to provide mobile services to existing customers, a Phones 4U spokesman has confirmed.
The company said the move has come about after EE decided not to renew its current contract, meaning it would be left without a network partner after Vodafone pulled the plug on its contract earlier this month.
In a statement, the retailer's chief executive, David Kassler, said: "Today is a very sad day for our customers and our staff.
"The great service we have provided should have guaranteed a strong future, but unfortunately our network partners have decided otherwise.
"The ultimate result will be less competition, less choice and higher prices for mobile customers in the UK."
Phone 4U have stores in St Stephen's Shopping Centre, Princes Quay Shopping Centre and King Edward Street.
Staff are expected to be briefed by management this morning.
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