Overview
HYLA Mobile, a key component of Assurant, Inc., specializes in mobile device trade-in and recommerce solutions. Originating as eRecyclingCorps, HYLA Mobile is recognized for its expertise in mobile device lifecycle management and consumer goods protection, bolstering Assurant's presence in the mobile device resale market.
Business Focus
HYLA Mobile plays a fundamental role in the mobile ecosystem by offering comprehensive trade-in and upgrade solutions. These solutions cater to mobile operators, retailers, OEMs, insurers, and online brands, aimed at capturing, extending, and optimizing the life and value of mobile devices. The company emphasizes maximizing economic returns while promoting environmental sustainability. Their services are supported by advanced technology, analytics, and logistics, ensuring quality standards through automated diagnostic and grading processes.
Product Offerings
- Trade-In and Buyback Programs: Acquisition of pre-owned smartphones, tablets, and wearables from major carriers, retailers, and OEMs.
- Consumer Goods Protection: Includes vehicle protection services and leads in lender-placed insurance.
- Lifecycle Management: Ensures data sanitization and user data protection via advanced software and compliance with industry standards like the GSMA lost and stolen database check.
Leadership
Biju Nair is the President and CEO of HYLA Mobile, spearheading innovation and operational efficiency. Under his leadership, the company holds multiple patents in the wireless telecom sector and is acknowledged for its societal influence through technology solutions.
Key Executive Team
- Paul Catalano: Senior Vice President of Program Management and Customer Satisfaction.
- Chad Lander: Senior Vice President - Distribution Channel Strategy and Development.
- Brandon Ross: Director of Engineering and Automation.
Strategic Developments
December 2020 marked Assurant's acquisition of HYLA Mobile, advancing its status as a leader in trade-in and upgrade programs. This acquisition utilizes HYLA's established network and industry know-how to boost Assurant's operational capabilities in mobile device exchange services.
Market Presence
Operating in seven countries, HYLA Mobile collaborates with leading carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, and Orange across over 16,000 retail locations. This network enables HYLA to offer immediate, in-store trade-in credits for used mobile devices, contributing to wider access to affordable wireless technologies worldwide. As part of Assurant, HYLA provides scalable, technology-driven solutions that meet the mobile device market's changing needs while advocating for a sustainable electronics ecosystem.
Competitor Profiling
HYLA Mobile faces competition from numerous firms in the mobile device recycling, refurbishment, and protection industry. Key competitors include Gazelle, uSell, Belmont Trading, Brightstar, Asurion, and Teqcycle Solutions.
Notable Competitors
- Brightstar Corp.: Offering comprehensive device lifecycle management, including distribution, protection, insurance, and buyback services. Operating in over 50 countries, Brightstar serves carrier, retail, and enterprise customers globally.
- Website: [Brightstar Corp.](http://www.brightstar.com/)
- Asurion Corporation: Specializing in smartphone, consumer electronics, and home appliance insurance, repair, and support since 1994. Asurion's services extend to over 290 million consumers globally through partnerships with retailers, carriers, and pay-TV providers.
- Website: [Asurion](http://www.asurion.com/)
- Teqcycle Solutions: Established in 2013, Teqcycle leads the European market with certified trade-in and reuse programs. Recently acquired by Foxway to enhance their trade-in services.
- Website: [Teqcycle Solutions](http://www.teqcycle.com)
Secondary and Emerging Competitors
- Boku: Focuses on direct carrier billing mobile payments, working with large tech companies like Facebook and Sony.
- FutureDial, Inc.: Offers software solutions for mobile device management, targeting logistics and device lifecycle processes.
- Website: [FutureDial](http://www.futuredial.com)
- Likewize: Since 2017, providing comprehensive technology protection and support across 30 countries, managing about 250 million tech-related issues annually.
- Website: [Likewize](https://www.likewize.com)
Competitive Analysis
HYLA Mobile operates in a competitive market against companies with varied focus in the device and technology lifecycle. Brightstar's large-scale operations resemble HYLA’s business model, presenting strong competition. Asurion's expansive protection and support services pose a significant peripheral threat. In Europe, Teqcycle's partnerships and robust trade-in solutions highlight areas where HYLA might encounter increased competition in recycling and returning mobile devices. To maintain and expand its market position, HYLA must continue focusing on innovation and strategic alliances.
