Newsroom Odido

Startphone: a new choice for parents and children when getting a first smartphone

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:00:52 +0200

A child asks for their first smartphone, classmates are already messaging and scrolling, while advice and opinions on screen time and social media vary widely. As a result, many parents are looking for ways to guide their children responsibly in a digital world that starts at an increasingly young age. To help parents navigate this challenge, researchers from the University of Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Odido today launch Startphone: a new option for parents and children to approach a first smartphone in a responsible, step-by-step way.

Startphone is available as a free Android application that transforms an existing smartphone into a Startphone, unlocking features that match a child’s stage of development. It is the first solution in the Netherlands to integrate the Dutch government’s new guidelines on smartphone and social media use among children and young people into a practical tool for families.

Parents want to do more but lack practical guidance
The launch of Startphone follows a societal development that researchers and parents have been observing for some time. New research by the University of Amsterdam* among parents of children aged 10 to 15 shows that parents feel responsible for their children’s online safety but often lack the knowledge and practical tools to support them. As many as 82 percent of parents surveyed say they believe they should be doing more to protect their children online.

The findings confirm a growing need for guidance when it comes to growing up in a digital world. It is a challenge that Odido and researchers from the University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam have been working on together for more than a year through the development of Startphone.

A responsible start with a first smartphone
Startphone translates government recommendations on smartphone and social media use into a practical solution for families. Through four different stages, children gradually gain access to smartphone features appropriate to their age and development, while parents maintain oversight and make agreements together with their child.

The Startphone solution is based on scientific research into smartphone use, social media and the development of children and young people. It was developed from the belief that responsible digital development starts with guidance that matches a child’s stage of growth. That is why Startphone focuses on shared agreements, gradual freedom and ongoing support.

Dr. Wouter van den Bos (University of Amsterdam), involved in the development of Startphone:
"Many parents feel that a smartphone becomes inevitable at a certain point, but struggle not only with when to introduce one, but also with how to guide their child afterwards. Our research shows that parents are not necessarily looking for more control, but for more support and practical guidance."

Prof. Dr. Ina Koning (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam), also involved in the development of Startphone:
"The findings confirm what we have seen in research for years: growing up in a digital world is not an all-or-nothing issue. Children develop at different speeds. It therefore makes sense for digital freedom to grow gradually alongside a child’s age, skills and experience."

How it works
Startphone evolves alongside a child’s development – from calling and messaging at the earliest levels to broader access to apps, screen time settings and online guidance at later stages. Features are gradually unlocked over time, but parents can also choose to enable additional functionality manually.

This approach prevents children from being thrown into the digital deep end all at once, while allowing parents to gradually give them more independence as they grow.

The different levels

Basic Level – Calling & Playing Outside
Level 1 – Smart & School (approx. ages 11–12)
Level 2 – Chat & Connect (approx. ages 13–14)
Level 3 – Share & Explore (approx. age 15 and up)

Parents download the application from the Google Play Store onto their child’s phone and complete the installation together. Once installed, Startphone takes over the Android phone’s interface and settings, transforming a regular smartphone into a Startphone.

Tisha van Lammeren, CCO Mass Market at Odido:
"Many parents experience a first smartphone as a difficult step, while at the same time recognising that their child can hardly participate socially without one. That is why we do not believe in either banning smartphones altogether or giving unrestricted access. We believe in guidance. With Startphone, we help parents and children use a first smartphone responsibly together and make agreements that fit a child’s stage of development. Step by step, in a way that is realistic for everyday family life. At Odido, we believe technology should help people move forward. That is why we want to do more than connect families – we want to support them in the choices that come with growing up in a digital world."

Available to every family
To make the solution accessible to as many families as possible, Startphone is not linked to any subscription or mobile provider. Anyone in the Netherlands with an Android smartphone can use the application free of charge. It also works on older devices that may already be sitting unused at home.

Startphone is available from today via the Google Play Store. More information can be found at startphone.nl.

Startphone was officially launched today during an event at Nieuwspoort in The Hague, attended by policymakers, civil society organisations and researchers.
Photo (left to right): Tisha van Lammeren, Gerdine Keijzer-Baldé, Ina Koning, Wouter van den Bos.

Odido introduces 'Toestelinruil’ (Device Trade In): A fair price for your old phone

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:05:00 +0100

Today, Odido is launching ‘Toestelinruil’, a renewed and user-friendly way for customers and non-customers to hand in their old phone. They can use the trade-in value as a discount on their next purchase or have the amount paid directly into their bank account. Devices that are traded in are reused or responsibly recycled, giving valuable materials a second life. In this way, Odido contributes to a more sustainable world where everyone can take part now and in the future.

A clear and simple way to trade in
With 'Toestelinruil’, Odido is choosing an approach that is clear and easy to understand. Many people have an old phone at home but are unsure what it is worth. Through the self-service tool on odido.nl, customers can quickly see the estimated value of their device, with the option to receive support from a staff member in an Odido Shop if needed.

In the shop, the final value is assessed on the spot and can be used immediately towards a new purchase. Those who prefer a direct payout can send their device via PostNL. Once received, the device is checked, and the payment is made within two working days. This gives customers clarity and certainty throughout the process.

With fair prices, and no surprises
Odido aims to prevent situations where customers are offered a high price that later turns out to be lower. Instead, customers receive a realistic value that reflects the actual condition of their device, keeping the process transparent and expectations clear. For this reason, Odido does not use labels such as “as good as new”, as devices rarely meet that description in practice.

Contributing to a more sustainable world
Through ‘Toestelinruil’, Odido takes another step in reducing material use and extending the lifespan of devices. By reusing traded-in phones or recycling them responsibly, fewer new raw materials are needed, and the production of new devices decreases. In this way, the programme makes a tangible contribution to a more sustainable chain.

“We want to continuously improve our services and make them more sustainable. That’s something we work on every single day,” says Tisha van Lammeren, CCO at Odido. “With our simple and fair trade-in programme, we encourage everyone to hand in that old phone that often ends up forgotten in a drawer. It has value — for customers and for our planet. It shows that things can be done differently.”

Odido works every day on technology that supports people and reduces its impact on the world. Toestelinruil, developed in collaboration with Assurant, is one example. From this responsibility, Odido continues to invest in sustainable choices, accessible technology, and a way of connecting that reflects what people need.

Odido Extends Partnership with Join Us Foundation

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 10:33:00 +0100

Odido is extending its partnership with Join Us Foundation, the organization dedicated to strengthening the mental and social health of young people experiencing loneliness. The telecom provider has been working with Join Us since 2021 to help young people feel stronger, more resilient, and more connected. By combining Odido's digital expertise with Join Us's substantive knowledge, the organizations are working toward one goal: helping young people feel less lonely.

Use Your Voice Against Loneliness
The extension follows a series of joint projects, including the campaign "Use Your Voice Against Loneliness." Odido, Join Us, and MIND Us launched this campaign during Mental Health Awareness Week. The message was simple but urgent: use your voice against loneliness. Because although making contact is easier than ever, with full contact lists, hundreds of followers, and dozens of group chats, more than one in three young people feel lonely. The campaign received national attention and highlighted how significant the problem of youth loneliness is. The insights and results from the campaign form an important starting point for the next phase of the partnership.

Building More Connection Together
Recent figures about how Gen Z experiences the online world show that campaigns like "Use Your Voice Against Loneliness" are desperately needed. Scientific research demonstrates that genuine conversations (such as phone calls, video calls, or voice messages) can lead to genuine connections. It's precisely in this context that the partnership between Odido and Join Us plays an important role. Since the collaboration began, they have reached thousands of young people annually through local groups, national campaigns, and a growing online community. A great example of this is the Stronger Together event, where the renewed partnership was also announced. Both organizations are actively working to restore real connection in the lives of young people throughout the Netherlands.

Margreet Hoekstra, Chief Legal and Regulatory Affairs Officer: “Young people are constantly 'on,' both online and offline, and that can be quite overwhelming. Technology makes connecting easier than ever, but it only becomes meaningful when used in the right way. That's why we believe it's important for technology to remain human. During the Stronger Together event, where we spoke with young people, experts, and platforms about connection in a digital age, we frequently discussed how important technology is in helping lonely young people find connection. We're therefore pleased to extend and deepen our partnership with Join Us.”

Connecting and Strengthening Young People
With the renewed partnership, Odido and Join Us are building on this foundation. Odido will continue supporting Join Us in further digitalizing and scaling up their activities. This makes it easier for Join Us to guide young people in an accessible way, regardless of where they live or how they want to get in touch. By accelerating processes and modernizing programs, Join Us gains the capacity to reach even more young people.

Jolanda van Gerwe, Director of Join Us Foundation: "Through this partnership, we can reach young people with feelings of loneliness even earlier and support them preventively in strengthening their social network. By further modernizing our approach, we not only increase our impact but also create more opportunities to truly connect young people with each other. Having a partner like Odido contribute structurally to this is of great value to us. Together, we're building a strong social foundation for young people."

Odido teams up with Jutta Leerdam

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:31:00 +0200

Odido, proud partner of TeamNL, is excited to announce a partnership with speed skater Jutta Leerdam. From this season onwards, the Odido logo will appear on Jutta’s black competition suit as well as on TeamNL’s international competition suit. In the lead-up to the Olympic Winter Games in Milan, and throughout the qualification process, Odido and Jutta also aim to inspire others to follow their own path

A conscious choice to follow your own path.
In May 2024, Leerdam made a bold choice: returning to coach Kosta Poltavets, with whom she had previously won the world title in the 1,000 meters. A conscious step towards her ultimate goal: the Olympic Winter Games in Milan 2026. It was also a reminder that real success is built on the people you surround yourself with; the team behind every champion. A message Odido has previously highlighted in campaigns, including those with multiple Olympic champion Sifan Hassan.

“At Odido, we look at the human side of sport, because we believe in the power of connection,” says Søren Abildgaard, CEO at Odido. "Jutta dares to think differently, not because she has to, but because she consciously chooses to surround herself with people who truly believe in her and help her grow. People who choose their own path and dare to stand out deserve our full support. That’s what Odido stands for. That’s why we stand behind Jutta and the entire TeamNL.”

More than performance alone
Leerdam doesn’t just excel on the ice. She also uses her voice to break taboos in elite sports by openly sharing her experiences, such as the impact of menstruation on her performance and her history with body weight. By showing vulnerability, she becomes even stronger and paves the way for a new generation of athletes who don’t have to choose between authenticity and top performance.

Jutta Leerdam about the partnership: “Because of the people who stand behind me, I can make the choices that help me grow and become better at what I do. That’s exactly what this partnership with Odido represents for me; the power of connection. It truly warms my heart to know that people feel inspired by my story. To see them dare to follow their own path and realize there’s another way. I love that Odido fully embraces that as well.”

It can be done differently
For Odido, top athletes like Jutta Leerdam embody the brand’s promise: “It can be done differently". It’s the belief that you don’t have to follow the beaten path when you know what works for you. That trust in your own choices, and in having the right people around you, is what leads to real progress.

Inspiring the journey to Milan
The partnership goes beyond having the Odido logo on the suit. In the lead-up to the Olympic Winter Games in Milan, and throughout the qualification process, Odido and Jutta aim to inspire others to follow their own path. How this will take shape will be revealed by Odido in the coming months. Previously, Odido launched remarkable campaigns and portraits featuring ambassadors such as Xandra Velzeboer, Joël de Jong, and Sifan Hassan.

Odido new partner of the Esther Vergeer Foundation: Together for sports fun for every child

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 13:03:00 +0200

The Esther Vergeer Foundation is proud to welcome Odido as a new partner with the common goal of getting children with physical disabilities or chronic conditions moving in a positive way. With this partnership, they are committed to an inclusive sports world where every child has the opportunity to participate. An important part of the cooperation with Odido is the Esther Vergeer Foundation Sport Camp - an annual, multi-day camp that will start in two days in Arnhem. At the sports camp, 50 children can enjoy three days without their parents, but with peers who, like them, have a physical disability or chronic illness. They play sports, games, have fun and build friendships for life.

TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days
The cooperation is part of Odido's ambition to encourage sports participation by everyone in the Netherlands. Therefore, in addition to the cooperation for the sports camps, Odido will also involve the Esther Vergeer Foundation in the TeamNL Talent Days. Since last year, the telecom provider and TeamNL have been organizing additional Talent Days and rolling out new innovations to find more potentially talented athletes. The urgency of this is great because at the time of Covid-19, no TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days were organized. This resulted in no new influx of athletes with disabilities for the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 batch. This is how Odido, NOC*NSF and TeamNL aim to make the Netherlands the sportiest country in the world.

“Fantastic that a partner like Odido commits to my foundation as well as involving us in the TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days,” says Esther Vergeer. “It's great to see that Odido supports parasports, but is also committed to the very first steps of children in sports. Together we ensure that every child can participate.”

Leo Hensen, Director Marketing & Communications at Odido on the partnership: “Every child deserves to enjoy sports. Through this cooperation, we can give even more children this opportunity and stand at the start of a sporty life, full of self-confidence, fun and new opportunities.”

Esther Vergeer Foundation
The Esther Vergeer Foundation believes in the power of sport, because sport strengthens children's health, self-confidence and resilience, and enables them to participate fully and enjoyably in society. For this reason, the foundation helps children with physical disabilities find a suitable place at a sports club in their neighborhood. It does this by offering each child a personalized approach, intensive guidance and a hands-on mentality. Through sports clinics in academic children's hospitals, rehabilitation clinics and from the office at Sports Center Papendal, the Esther Vergeer Foundation connects families with sports clubs and healthcare professionals.

Use your voice against loneliness

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:53:00 +0200

During the Week of Mental Health, Odido, Join Us and MIND Us are calling on everyone in the Netherlands to break the silence and really connect and talk to each other again. The message is clear: use your voice against loneliness. Because although making contact is easier than ever - with full contact lists, hundreds of followers and dozens of group apps - more than one in three young people feel lonely. Conversations have become quieter. Contact more superficial. And loneliness quietly creeps in.

“A text message is sent quickly,” says Britt (20), who herself has long felt the need for more social contact. “And behind a screen I may feel socially connected, but in conversation you feel that connection goes deeper.”

The numbers don't lie because as many as 44.6% of young people have recently felt somewhat to severely lonely*. Young people meet up less often, even though they know that contact in particular is important for their mental health. Some indicate that they even find it exciting to have a real conversation - as if they have lost touch. And that is precisely where the power of the call lies: to show that things can be done differently, and that they must be done differently.

❤️ is not the same as “I love you”
The call Use Your Voice Against Loneliness is based on insights from scientific research**. While digital communication - such as emojis, apps and voice messages - sometimes helps, spoken language proves especially powerful in conveying real emotions. In a voice there are nuances, warmth, and involvement. Exactly what you miss in a world full of quick messages and filters when you feel lonely.

Jolanda van Gerwe, Director, Director Join Us Foundation: “We see daily how powerful it is when young people really connect. But also, how difficult that sometimes can be in a digital world. Many young people feel lonely, but don't dare to say so. We want to open up the conversation about this. It starts with listening - and using your voice.”

Frederieke Vriends, director MIND Us: “Young people need more than a like or a quick response. Real attention and genuine conversations contribute to mental resilience. By using your voice, you can make a difference - sometimes that's why a simple 'how are you really doing' is so powerful.”

An emoji is quick to send. But what does it really say?
With striking images and the slogan Use Your Voice, the campaign shows what a conversation can do. Because a quick emoji can never beat a real conversation. Starting this week, the call can be seen and heard everywhere - on TV, radio, online, in newspapers, magazines, and on social media.

The national call is aimed at everyone and deliberately places the responsibility not on lonely young people themselves, but on those around them. In doing so, Use Your Voice Against Loneliness breaks through the stigma that often rests on loneliness. Lonely young people often experience shame or the feeling of failure, which prevents them from seeking help. By calling on those around them to make contact and start the conversation, we make loneliness discussable and visible - and take an important step towards connection.

On the campaign page young people will find references for practical tips, stories of others, as well as help if they feel lonely or have questions about their mental health. But there is also inspiration for friends, parents, colleagues or neighbors who want to use their voice.

Tisha van Lammeren, Chief Commercial Officer at Odido and ambassador of Join Us and MIND Us: “At Odido, we believe in true connection. Technology is great, but only valuable when it brings people closer together. This joint initiative shows how much of a difference you can make for young people who feel lonely - just with your voice.”

Technology for human connection
Smartphones and the Internet offer numerous benefits but also bring challenges. Odido takes a responsibility for this by supporting initiatives that encourage conscious and healthy phone use. Not only does the company work with Join Us and MIND Us, the provider also supports Join Us' Stronger Together event. Besides that, Odido launched Het Telefoonboekje (in collaboration with the CPNB) - the first reading book in smartphone form, designed to promote reading among schoolchildren and combat excessive screen use. Odido also introduced 'Screen Friday' in collaboration with NOC*NSF: an initiative that challenges young people under the motto 'sometimes not for a while' to go offline for two hours and get moving.

* Eenzaamheid; persoonskenmerken | CBS

* * Bronnen:

A person’s mental state can therefore be inferred more accurately via speech than via text: Hall & Schmid Mast (2007); Kruger et al. (2005).
Goede sociale interacties, gekenmerkt door verbondenheid, tevredenheid, authenticiteit, en interesse, zijn effectiever in het verminderen van eenzaamheid dan frequente maar oppervlakkige interacties: Reis et3 al. (2000); Nezlek et al. (2002);
Interacties zijn betekenisvol als ze een emotionele, informatieve of tastbare impact hebben. Ook als er persoonlijke informatie, begrip, zorg en waardering wordt gedeeld voelen mensen zich minder eenzaam. Zonder deze impact bieden zelfs frequente interacties weinig verlichting van eenzaamheid: Litt et al. (2020); Wheeler et al. (1983); Kuczynski et al. (2021).

Odido Awarded Platinum Medal by EcoVadis

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:12:00 +0100

Odido has been awarded the Platinum Medal by EcoVadis, one of the global leaders in business sustainability assessments. This recognition serves as a valuable acknowledgment of the telecom provider’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. The Platinum Medal is a recognition awarded to the Top 1% of companies assessed by EcoVadis.

Odido firmly believes that everyone should be able to participate in society. As such, the company is dedicated to making technology more human-centered, sustainable, and inclusive. To achieve this, Odido continuously invests in initiatives that positively impact both society and the planet. Its efforts have paid off: after securing Gold status last year, Odido has now earned the prestigious Platinum medal.

Exceptional Performance in Environmental Sustainability
EcoVadis evaluates companies based on four key themes: environment, labor and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. Odido has demonstrated significant improvement across all these areas compared to the previous year. The organization was particularly commended for its decision to have its greenhouse gas emissions calculations externally audited, its robust ethical policies, initiatives to safeguard employee health and safety, and its initiatives to encourage more sustainable phone usage among its customers.

Odido’s environmental performance, in particular, stands out. The company received an exceptional score of 94 points out of 100 points in total in this category. This achievement is largely driven by its ambitious sustainability goals, including a commitment to reducing its direct greenhouse gas emissions by 95% by 2028.

A Testament to Odido’s Commitment
“As an organization, we continuously strive to make more sustainable choices for both people and the planet. We are committed to making our technology more sustainable while keeping people at the heart of everything we do. This Platinum rating demonstrates that we take our ambitions seriously,” says Søren Abildgaard, CEO of Odido. “We aim to improve every day, which is why EcoVadis’ assessment is so valuable to us. Their reporting provides crucial insights into the effectiveness of our initiatives and helps us identify areas for further improvement.”

Odido is taking several concrete steps toward achieving its sustainability ambitions. The company operates entirely on 100% renewable electricity, has fully electrified its fleet of vehicles, and has eliminated the use of virgin plastic packaging in its logistics chain. Recently, Odido also announced a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to purchase green electricity from a new wind farm in Zeeland for the next ten years.

About EcoVadis
EcoVadis’ business sustainability ratings are based on international sustainability standards such as the ‘Ten Principles’ of the UN Global Compact, the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards and the ISO 26000 standard. The ratings provide an evidenced-based analysis on performance and an actionable roadmap for continuous improvement.

365 days before Milan Odido surprises short trackers with support from home on their skating suits

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 09:21:00 +0100

With exactly one year to go until the Winter Olympics in Milan, the Dutch shorttrackers will appear at the start of the ISU Shorttrack World Tour - Odido Cup in a unique outfit. Xandra Velzeboer, Sjinkie Knegt, Jens van ‘t Wout and their teammates were surprised with a special gesture: personal messages from loved ones, family and friends printed on their skating suits in the place where normally the sponsor can be found.

Thanks to TeamNL partner Odido, the skaters will get an extra source of inspiration during the ISU Shorttrack World Tour in Tilburg. The personal messages, meant to motivate and support, replace the Odido logo on the suits for this occasion. Top sport can be lonely, but the support of people around them allows the absolute best to cope with pressure, setbacks and challenges.

Those important people are also there during competitions, but at the end of the day, short trackers are alone on the ice. With the replacement of the Odido logos, Xandra Velzeboer, Sjinkie Knegt, Jens van ‘t Wout and their teammates also have the support of loved ones while on the ice. The unveiling of the new skating suits, the day before the start of the tournament in Tilburg, caused emotional reactions among the skaters. For instance, Jens van ‘t Wout, who recently dominated at the European Shorttrack Championships, was moved to tears. But champion Xandra Velzeboer was also perplexed by the personal message she received.

365 days to Milan
The Odido Cup marks the official start of the pre-Olympic year. In 365 days, the 2026 Winter Olympics will kick off in Milan. This is the start of a crucial year for short trackers, in which qualifications, intensive training and important competitions will be all-important.
With this in mind, Odido and KNSB decided to do something special together to give the team an extra boost. Messages sent in recent times by loved ones, friends and family - from encouragement after difficult moments to expressions of pride after major successes - were bundled and creatively incorporated into the short trackers' outfits.

Odido and shorttrack: a golden combination
As the proud naming partner of the fifth edition of the ISU Shorttrack World Tour and the main sponsor of TeamNL's shorttrack, Odido embraces the sport of shorttrack and its athletes. The IJssportcentrum in Tilburg will be transformed into a veritable shorttrack arena from 7 to 9 February, where the best Dutch shorttrackers will compete with the world's best.

Also after the Odido Cup, Odido will be associated as a partner with the next edition of the ISU Shorttrack World Tour in November 2025, to be held in Dordrecht. This tournament will also serve as an Olympic qualification tournament for TeamNL, ahead of the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics.

Odido to source green electricity from new wind farm for the next ten years

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 13:48:00 +0100

Odido takes the next step in its sustainability ambitions by signing a ten-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Wind Farm Willem Annapolder II. Once completed, the wind farm, consisting of four new wind turbines, will supply 30% of Odido’s total green electricity needs. This initiative perfectly aligns with Odido’s broader goals to further advance sustainability.

Odido will further enhance the sustainability of its energy consumption through the production of green electricity by the wind turbines at Wind Farm Willem Annapolder II. While Odido already sources 100% green electricity this collaboration marks a new step in the sustainability of its energy needs by committing to purchase all the electricity generated by the four wind turbines.

The Next Step in Reducing Odido’s Carbon Footprint
The agreement aligns well with Odido’s broader sustainability goals. The telecom provider has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2028. This will be achieved by measures such as using fewer materials and extending the lifespan of its products. Previously, Odido has already taken several concrete steps to realize its sustainability ambitions, including exclusively using 100% renewable electricity, fully electrifying its vehicle fleet, and eliminating the use of new plastic packaging materials in its logistics chain.

With this collaboration, Odido enables the financing of Wind Farm Willem Annapolder II and guarantees the purchase of green electricity for at least ten years. “By committing to long-term projects such as Wind Farm Willem Annapolder II, we ensure that sustainable energy initiatives truly get off the ground,” says Gero Niemeyer, CFO of Odido. “With this initiative, we are making a tangible contribution to the sustainability of the Netherlands while taking the next step in reducing our carbon footprint.”

The four wind turbines at Willem Annapolder II are four times more efficient than older generations of wind turbines, contributing to higher production with a smaller footprint. As a result, the wind farm generates approximately 58,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of green electricity annually.

The four wind turbines are expected to be operational by the end of 2025.

Odido recognized as Top Employer for third consecutive year

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 15:00:00 +0100

For the third consecutive year, Odido has been honored with the “Top Employer” title by the globally renowned Top Employers Institute. The recognition reflects Odido's ongoing commitment and ambitions to be a good employer. This year’s recognition underscores the company’s efforts and investments in employee well-being, which resulted in the high score.

New employer brand
Following the launch of Odido in 2023, establishing the company as an attractive employer brand became a key priority. This year's Top Employer survey proves Odido’s success in this mission. For the third consecutive year, Odido has earned the Top Employer title, marking a significant milestone. Additionally, with the rising scores Odido also surpassed the market average for the first time.

Additional progress was made in areas such as well-being, according to the study. Moreover, the Top Employer Institute praised Odido’s exceptional performance in the area of ‘onboarding’. The report also recognized the company’s effective methods for measuring progression and implementing continuous improvements.

Saskia Bekkers-Verbraak, Chief Human Resources Officer at Odido:
“Na een jaar waarin we als Odido over zijn gegaan naar een nieuw merk en identiteit, betekent de onderscheiding als Top Employer extra veel voor ons. Niet alleen overtreffen we de benchmark van andere telecombedrijven, maar we scoren voor het derde jaar op rij beter dan voorheen. Bij Odido steken we veel energie in goed werkgeverschap, en we zijn dan ook blij dat dit niet onopgemerkt blijft. Vooral op een hele reeks thema's die voor ons ontzettend belangrijk zijn, zoals diversiteit, inclusiviteit, en het welzijn van onze medewerkers.”

About Top Employers
The Top Employers Institute is the global authority on certifying excellence in HR. It helps accelerate and enhance the impact of HR practices and related fields. Through its certification program, the institute validates, certifies and recognizes companies as employers of choice. Established 30 years ago, the Top Employers Institute has certified 1,857 organizations across 123 countries/regions. These “top employers” positively impact the lives of 8,000,000 employees worldwide.

TeamNL and Odido start hunt for Paralympic Talents for LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0200

With the start of the Paralympic Games in Paris, TeamNL and Odido announce a new collaboration for the TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days in the coming years. Together, they will organize additional Talent Days, and initiate new innovations to identify more potential talented athletes. The urgency for this initiative is high, as no TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days were held in 2019 and 2020 due to COVID-19. This led to a lack of new athletes with disabilities entering the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 cycles. The TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days mark a new chapter for Odido as a partner of NOC*NSF, TeamNL, and Dutch sports.

Odido is committed to supporting both elite sports and the sports federations within TeamNL, with the aim of promoting sports participation on a broad scale. Together with NOC*NSF and TeamNL, Odido aspires to make the Netherlands the most athletic nation in the world. This collaboration now extends to include the Paralympic Talent Days. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the influx of new Paralympic talent requires an additional boost. Since the TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days could not be held in 2019 and 2020 due to COVID-19, the intake of new athletes with disabilities for the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 cohorts has been insufficient.

Through its partnership with NOC*NSF, Odido is now making it possible to expand the number of Talent Days. Odido is also committed to a long-term effort to reach a broader audience. A first step in this direction is for example sharing knowledge and expertise on improving the accessibility of NOC*NSF's communication channels for individuals such as the deaf, hard of hearing, and visually impaired.

The importance of the TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days
In addition to the challenges posed by COVID-19, individual sports federations have struggled to identify and integrate potentially talented athletes with disabilities into talent groups, training programs, and elite sports pathways. Moreover, these potential athletes are scattered across the country, whether at regular or adapted sports clubs, whether or not in special education, weekly at rehabilitation centers, or having already completed rehabilitation. Because it is too resource-intensive for sports federations to maintain contact with all relevant referral sources and to act quickly when a talented athlete emerges, NOC*NSF launched a joint initiative with the sports federations in 2009 to coordinate talent intake nationwide, with the Talent Days being a key component. With the NOC*NSF partnership, Odido enables that the number of Talent Days can now be further expanded.

Marc van den Tweel, General Director of NOC*NSF: "Our collaboration with Odido gives us great confidence that we can significantly increase the influx of talented athletes in the lead-up to the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Games. Together with Odido, we are already organizing an additional TeamNL Paralympic Talent Day in the fall of 2024. The Talent Days are essential for the Netherlands to nurture new Paralympic talent. It is fantastic that our partner Odido is making this possible."

Tisha van Lammeren, Chief Commercial Officer at Odido: "At Odido, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to participate. The partnership for the TeamNL Paralympic Talent Days is an excellent way for us to reinforce this commitment. We are proud to support athletes with disabilities in this manner and to make a tangible contribution to the future success of Paralympic elite sports in the Netherlands."

Every step forward starts with the people behind you
Odido recently launched its new campaign around the Olympic and Paralympic Games: "Every step forward starts with the people behind you." This campaign highlights remarkable Olympic and Paralympic athletes such as Sifan Hassan, Marrit Steenbergen, and Joel de Jong. Through mini-documentaries, Odido aims to acknowledge and appreciate the important role of the team behind the athlete. The campaign is a tribute to the unsung heroes who contribute to every top performance and demonstrates that every step an athlete takes forward begins with the support network behind them.

Odido presents CSR report 2023

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 16:35:00 +0200

Today Odido presents its CSR Report 2023, highlighting the social and sustainable initiatives of the past year and their impact. Odido strives to make technology more human. This means that technology must be meaningful, sustainable and inclusive. Therefore, Odido integrates corporate social responsibility (CSR) seamlessly into its business strategy and operations. This year, the organization also made significant progress on several fronts.

In particular, lower emissions and circularity stand out. By 2023, Odido has reduced gas consumption by 43% compared to 2022. In addition, the company uses fully renewable energy for all its antennas, network and buildings. Partly due to the implementation of an energy-saving mode in the 4G/5G network, the electricity footprint has been further reduced. In addition, 71% of obsolete network equipment has been reused, and Odido no longer adds plastic to the logistics chain.

Also in other areas, Odido has made progress. For example, for the first time, the executive board now consists of more women than men, and in 2023 Odido will have helped more than 25,000 people through social projects and partnerships, such as Join Us and MIND Us.

If you're big, you have to be kind too
Søren Abildgaard, CEO of Odido: "At Odido, we strongly believe in the motto: If you're big, you have to be kind too. We feel a responsibility to actively contribute to society and our size allows us to make real change. As an organization, we feel it is crucial to be an integral part of our environment and contribute wherever possible. Every day we make a conscious choice to do our part. This report shows that we are on the right track, but we remain committed to further progress."

Together for Better
Odido wants to be the human network that everyone can be a part of. The organization bundles all its corporate social responsibility activities and initiatives into the Together for Better program, which rests on four pillars: Good for the planet, Everyone can participate, Everyone can be themselves and Smart for society.

You can read the full report and more information about For Each Other on the Odido website.

Odido to become Official Partner and innovation partner of FC Utrecht from next season

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 12:15:00 +0200

From the upcoming season, Odido will be both the Official Partner and Innovation Partner of FC Utrecht. The telecom provider, whose logo has been visible on FC Utrecht's shirts since September, will thus remain connected to the club from the Domstad.

Odido's logo has adorned FC Utrecht's jerseys since September, following sustainable partnerships with previous frontrunners T-Mobile and Tele2. Each brand, along with FC Utrecht, successfully achieved the intended name recognition and content awareness through these partnerships.

Innovations and social contributions
One of the unique achievements was the creation of an Innovation Hub in Stadion Galgenwaard, which continues to be successfully visited. Other notable initiatives include the "Eindbaas" activations, various logo swaps, and the social activation where children from the Wilhelmina Children's Hospital in Utrecht could take a digital tour of Stadion Galgenwaard via a robot. Additionally, Odido co-founded the innovation platform FC Utrecht Next.

Thijs van Es, General Director of FC Utrecht, said: "We want to thank Odido for the many years of collaboration. Besides achieving their own objectives, Odido has also always supported our goals as the main sponsor. We have been able to work together in a very pleasant manner across many domains, making the partnership fruitful. Furthermore, the added value of a strong brand like Odido has become evident. We are very pleased that we will remain connected with Odido in the coming year as they will continue to be visible in the stadium and active in our business network as an Official Partner."

Martijn Teekens, Chief Commercial Officer Enterprise at Odido, said: "At Odido, we are proud of our long-term collaboration with FC Utrecht. Our partnership has not only increased our brand awareness but has also allowed us to make valuable contributions to the community. As Official Partner and Innovation Partner, we will continue to support the club's ambitions by making the latest technology available in and around the stadium. At Odido, we work from a technology standpoint, but people always come first. We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration in a different role."

Odido believes it is important for people to stay connected offline as well and therefore aims to inspire to be more active. In addition to the partnership with FC Utrecht, Odido will also remain a partner of Dutch sports and TeamNL in the coming years.

“The Phone Booklet”: Marjon Hoffman and Odido release free children's book to encourage more reading

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:31:00 +0200

The reading time of children in primary school drastically decreases as they get older, according to research*. At the same time, screen time increases. To primarily encourage students to read more books and put their phones down more often, Odido introduces 'The Phone Booklet'. The story comes from the successful children's book author Marjon Hoffman, known for the popular series 'The Rules of Floor'. 'The Phone Booklet' will be offered for free to primary schools in the Netherlands starting today, supported by CPNB (Collective Promotion of Dutch Literature Foundation).

Book in the form of a phone and WhatsApp conversations
Especially for primary school students from grade 6 to 8, Odido has developed the first reading book in the form of a phone. Children are getting smartphones at increasingly younger ages, and these devices are indispensable long before high school. According to the Media Use Monitor, three-quarters of Dutch children between the ages of seven and twelve use a smartphone. One of the downsides of the smartphone's popularity is that screen usage increases as children get older. As screen time increases, reading proficiency and reading time decrease. At the age of seven, 68% of children read a book almost daily outside of school hours. By the end of primary school, this has decreased by half (to 35%)*.

With 'The Phone Booklet,' Odido aims to encourage primary school students to occasionally put their smartphones aside and swap them for a book. The story by successful children's book author Marjon Hoffman focuses on a group of friends in high school and follows their WhatsApp conversations. Today, Marjon Hoffman handed over the first copies of her new book to grade 7 at Tweemaster Holleblok primary school in Huizen. Each slot in the class's phone pouch contained a copy of the booklet, making it easy for the children to exchange their smartphones for 'The Phone Booklet.'

Marjon Hoffman: "I wrote the story for 'The Phone Booklet' in the same way I always write for my target audience: realistic but peppered with humor because it's a way to get children to read. By casting the text in the form of messages and giving the booklet the feel of a smartphone, I hope children will enjoy reading it so much that they'll set aside their real smartphone for a while."

Synopsis
In 'The Phone Booklet,' we follow the comical adventure of Sam, who gets into trouble because of his annoying little sister. Through app conversations, we read how the problems escalate. We also get to know Sam's friends: Yous, who never comes up with a good solution, Thijs, who always comes up with a solution but is never online, and Donny, who immediately puts everything he finds on the street in his mouth to taste if it's really edible. Sam doesn't have much use for that. Fortunately, he also has a crush, Jamilla. Can she help him?

'The Phone Booklet' can be requested for free by primary schools in the Netherlands via the website odido.nl/hettelefoonboekje.

'Sometimes just not'
Smartphones and internet access have endless benefits, but the technology also has its downsides. Odido has long been taking responsibility for using phones more consciously, such as introducing Screen-Free Friday in collaboration with NOC*NSF. On this day, students are challenged under the motto 'sometimes just not' to leave their screens alone for two hours and engage in sports. In addition, Odido also collaborates with the creators of the Feelee app: GreenBerry and Garage2020. With the Feelee app, young people gain insight into their own emotions to become mentally stronger.

Tisha van Lammeren, Chief Commercial Officer at Odido: "We are big fans of technology at Odido and its unprecedented possibilities. It shouldn't be the case that the use of technology comes at the expense of important skills that foster social connection and have a significant impact on our lives. To ensure that even the youngest generations grow up with imagination, stories, and the world of books, our company is committed to maintaining children's reading skills. We are proud that this initiative is supported by CPNB."

Odido and CPNB
The first reading book in the form of a smartphone is supported by CPNB, known among other things as the organizer of the Children's Book Week. This foundation believes that reading enriches and connects people's lives with books. Therefore, it embraces the introduction of 'The Phone Booklet' to promote reading in primary schools. In addition to this initiative, Odido will support CPNB's library campaign 'Heel Nederland Leest' later this year.

Eveline Aendekerk, director of CPNB, is pleased with the collaboration: "Reading proficiency at a young age can make an enormous difference. One of the main barriers to reading is distraction by other things, especially smartphones. We therefore welcome Odido's call to put the phone down and read. 'The Phone Booklet' will certainly help with that. We are pleased that Odido reinforces its call by supporting CPNB's library campaign 'Heel Nederland Leest'."

Sources: Monitor de Bibliotheek op school primary education, 2020; Monitor de Bibliotheek op school secondary education, 2020. PISA-2018 (Reading time decreases with age - Stichting Lezen) Gubbels, Van Langen, Maassen, & Meelissen, 2019. Monitor Mediagebruik Nederlands Jeugdinstituut.

Odido announces collaboration with world champion Marrit Steenbergen in preparation for Paris 2024

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:10:00 +0200

As a proud partner of NOC*NSF, TeamNL, and Dutch sports, Odido today announces a collaboration with Olympic swimmer Marrit Steenbergen. Steenbergen is part of several athletes with whom Odido will work more closely in this Olympic year. The collaboration was announced through a mini-documentary.

Following the recent ISU World Short Track Championships, where Odido introduced Xandra Velzeboer as an ambassador, the telecom provider will announce multiple athletes, including Marrit Steenbergen, as ambassadors through personal videos leading up to the Olympic Games. These videos will share personal stories about the team behind our Olympic athletes and emphasize the invaluable role of volunteers, family members, friends, and fans. The stories of the ambassadors and their teams provide a unique insight into the dedication, passion, and support that are inseparable from elite sports. Odido aims to inspire and encourage the whole of the Netherlands to move more with these personal stories.

Inspiring Stories
Tisha van Lammeren, Chief Commercial Officer Mass Market at Odido: "It is an honor to collaborate with amazing athletes like Marrit and share their inspiring stories with the Netherlands. As a young girl, I spent many hours in swimming pools striving to become the best, so it is special to be able to share Marrit's story. Volunteers, family members, friends, and fans play a crucial role in the success of our Olympians, and we are proud to highlight their contributions. As a top athlete, you need the people around you to give everything you've got. Because the network behind the athlete is also invaluable. Together with TeamNL, we aim to get the Netherlands moving. Through our collaboration with our newly appointed ambassadors, we hope to further excite and inspire the Netherlands."

Marrit Steenbergen: "I am proud that Odido recognizes the team of people who support me daily in my swimming career and on my journey to the Olympic Games. That the silent forces behind my performances will also become visible. They deserve that, because we perform together."

Odido opens its doors to students on Girls’ Day 2024

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 11:38:00 +0200

Today, for the fifth consecutive year, Odido welcomes girls aged 10 to 15 during Girls’ Day, a national initiative in which companies give young girls the opportunity to explore the world of technology and IT. Despite the crucial role of STEM, technology, and IT in our society, the number of women in these fields lags behind. Figures from the Expertise Center on Gender Diversity in STEM, technology, and IT show that the percentage of women in these fields is only 16%. As a technology-driven company, Odido has an interest in a growing talent pool of young technicians, both in numbers and in diversity.

This year, Odido offers 31 students from group 7 of the Gerth van Wijkschool in The Hague the opportunity to explore the world of STEM, technology, and IT. During workshops, presentations, and hands-on activities, the girls will discover the possibilities within these fields. Female tech employees are ready to share their passion and take the girls on an inspiring journey through the organization. In addition, Fairphone will provide an 'Urban Mining' workshop to make the girls aware of the value of their mobile phone by understanding where they come from, what materials are used, and under what conditions they are made.

Corporate Social Responsibility
Odido is committed to making technology human-centered, where technology should be meaningful, sustainable, and inclusive for everyone in society.

Tisha van Lammeren, Chief Commercial Officer Mass Market at Odido and ambassador of the Digital Inclusion program, says, “Technology and connectivity play a crucial role in our lives and in the world around us. It is important for society that new technology is conceived, designed, and made by a diverse group of creators. We are eager to get to know this pool of young female talent and are excited to meet them on this day! Because more women in tech, that's what everyone wants, both men and women already working in tech!

VHTO
This is the fifth time Odido has organized Girls’ Day. The Expertise Center on Gender Diversity in STEM, technology, and IT, VHTO, is the initiator of this day. Various companies are opening their doors today to girls aged 10 to 15.

Odido kicks off the ISU Short Track World Championships with a personal story about Xandra Velzeboer's team

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:24:00 +0100

As the presenting partner of the ISU Short Track World Championships 2024 at Ahoy, Odido today unveils a personal glimpse into the team of short track skater Xandra Velzeboer. An intimate portrait of the talented short track skater, where Odido not only highlights Xandra but also sheds light on the people behind the top athlete. In addition to Xandra's story, Odido ensures that during the upcoming Short Track World Championships, the entire Netherlands can share special messages of support with the short track team. These messages will be displayed on special screens in the athletes' lounge and in the stadium during the championships. Fans can leave words of encouragement for the short track team through the special 'Show your support' portal, visible to the athletes before and during the competitions.

Olympic sports year
The ISU Short Track World Championships 2024 in the Netherlands also marks an important kickoff for Odido in the Olympic sports year. As the official partner of TeamNL, Odido supports various Olympic and Paralympic sports. This support begins with the 'Nederlandse Loterij ISU Short Track World Championships 2024 presented by Odido,' taking place from Friday, March 15, to Sunday, March 17, 2024, at Rotterdam Ahoy. Following the Short Track World Championships, Odido will share more personal stories about the teams behind our Olympic athletes throughout this Olympic year. Additionally, new ways for Dutch sports fans to cheer on the Olympians and Paralympians will be available in Paris.

"The Short Track World Championships at Ahoy mark the starting point of a remarkable sports year for us. Less than half a year ago, the Netherlands got to know Odido and our new positioning. During the Short Track World Championships in our own country and the Olympic and Paralympic Games, we can perfectly showcase what we want to contribute to as partners of Dutch sports," says Leo Hensen, Director of Marketing & Communications. "Volunteers, family members, friends, and fans are crucial because the network behind the athlete is invaluable. We have searched for these beautiful stories and will continue to highlight them throughout the year. I am looking forward to the coming months, where stories like that of Xandra Velzeboer can make a difference."

Odido organizes a panel discussion on Corporate Sustainability & Social Responsibility

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 09:09:00 +0100

Today, Odido is organizing a panel discussion on Corporate Sustainability & Social Responsibility (CSR) at its headquarters in The Hague. The primary objective of the panel discussion is to collect input and validation from external stakeholders regarding the specific topics that Odido should incorporate into its CSR reporting. With the implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in the EU, companies, including Odido, are required to include sustainability reports as part of their financial reporting starting in 2026, covering the fiscal year 2025.

Odido aims to make technology meaningful, sustainable, and inclusive, with a focus on understanding the implications of its activities on both people and the environment. The provider places great value on the input of relevant stakeholders and invites various external stakeholders to participate in the panel discussion. This way, stakeholders actively engage in the decision-making process. The panel discussion involves various partners, interest groups, and investors.

Reporting process
Currently, Odido is working on compiling a prioritized list of sustainability criteria, ranging from minimizing the ecological footprint to supporting specific target groups, such as youth and the elderly. As the next step in the reporting process, Odido invites stakeholders to validate this list and provide feedback. During the session, attendees are asked to contribute ideas on relevant ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) topics that Odido should report on. The goal is to ensure that all relevant issues are included and that the reporting aligns with the expectations of external stakeholders

Odido endorses Code of Conduct for Safe Construction of Digital Infrastructure

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 11:46:00 +0100

Odido announced today that it has signed the Code of Conduct for Safe Construction of Digital Infrastructure (GVAD). This code of conduct, initiated by Nlconnect and Techniek Nederland, aims to reduce the risks of accidents during the installation and maintenance of digital infrastructure. Digital infrastructure includes, among other things, 5G and fiber optic networks.

By signing the GVAD, Odido, along with other signatories, demonstrates its commitment to creating a safe working environment. This safe working environment is established, in part, by standardizing rules and safety regulations. In addition to Odido's belief that fiber optic should be accessible to everyone, the provider considers it crucial that data and telecom networks are installed and managed securely.

Largest Fiber Optic Provider
The installation of 5G, fiber optic, and other data and telecom networks is in full swing in the Netherlands. By adopting a wholesale model, where Odido utilizes networks from various major network owners, the provider has the largest provider of 100% fiber optic in the Netherlands, with more than 6 million households able to use these services. Odido also builds its own networks, for example in and to data centers and internet nodes. Odido also builds its own networks, for instance, to and from data centers and internet exchange points. With great precision, the network team ensures that fiber optic cables are laid in the ground alongside other vital infrastructures, such as cables and pipes for gas, electricity, and sewage.

Safe Working Environment
Johan van den Branden, Chief Network and Operations Officer at Odido, stated, "Safety is our top priority. For this reason, we have decided to align ourselves with this code of conduct to carry out the necessary work safely, in collaboration with contractors and industry peers."

Policy regarding calls to and from Israel and Palestine

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0100

Policy regarding calls to and from Israel and Palestine

Odido empathizes with the victims, friends, and/or family members affected by the war in and around the Gaza Strip. At Odido, the focus is on people, and this means that the provider believes in the power of connection.

Given the very tragic situation within the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the situation in Gaza, Odido has carefully considered how it can provide an appropriate solution as a provider to those affected. Because each war has its own dynamics and power field, Odido, in this specific situation, has opted for a very generous leniency policy that has also been applied by the provider around humanitarian disasters. An example of this is the earthquake in Morocco in 2023.

Based on the invoice insights Odido has regarding increased call costs to both Israeli and Palestinian territories after October 7, 2023, employees proactively approach customers and, together with the customer, explore a suitable solution. Call costs to and from the Gaza Strip are reimbursed by Odido.

This personal approach aligns with Odido's human-centered philosophy and is highly appreciated by our customers. Odido closely monitors the situation and adjusts its policy if the situation requires to do so. At present, there is no consideration for a change in our approach.

Odido Joins United Nations Global Compact

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 14:10:00 +0100

Odido joins UN Global Compact which encourages companies around the world to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies. By signing the Global Compact, Odido further strengthens its commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. The provider joins a broad coalition of companies, organisations and governments worldwide that have embedded sustainability in its strategy, in line with the United Nations' ten principles and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through its participation in the Global Compact, Odido pledges to uphold human rights, ensure fair labor conditions, safeguard the environment, and combat corruption.

Social inclusion at the forefront
Introduced in September 2023 as a telecom provider with a distinct approach, Odido, under the motto 'It can also be like this', the provider announced its intention to make technology more human. By supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing the mental well-being of young people and organizing smartphone workshops for the elderly, Odido places a strong emphasis on fostering social inclusion.

For the organisation, inclusion is a key ambition. According to the provider, the "Everyone is included" mission starts with its own employees. Odido is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive working environment where everyone feels welcome, safe and can be themselves.

Advancing sustainability goals
Odido is fervently committed to the sustainability of its operations. For instance, it aims to reduce its own greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2028 by using fewer materials and extending the lifespan of its products. Odido has committed to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for its sustainability goals. With this, the provider has its formulated targets validated to confirm whether they actually contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. Odido has also already taken a number of concrete steps to realise its sustainability ambitions, including making full use of 100% renewable energy, fully electrifying its own fleet and no longer using packaging material made of virgin plastic in the logistics chain.

Human rights in the chain
Earlier, Odido became a member of the Joint Alliance for CSR (JAC). An association of telecom providers aiming to monitor, assess and develop the implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the production centers of major multinational suppliers to the ICT industry.

Harmony between technology and humanity
Søren Abildgaard, CEO of Odido stated, "I am proud to have signed and submitted the commitment letter on behalf of Odido to UN Global Compact. This step underlines our commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. My team and I started integrating socially responsible and sustainable issues into our strategy and into the DNA of our organisation several years ago. As a result, every employee at Odido is an ambassador and makes a personal contribution to our sustainable and social ambitions. At Odido, it is not only technology that is central, but people. We believe that technology and humanity can go hand in hand. We are the network for everyone, and we look forward to working together for a sustainable and inclusive future."

In existence since 2000, the UN Global Compact is the world's largest initiative for sustainability and corporate social responsibility in business. The initiative now has more than 17,000 member companies in over 160 countries.

Odido will report annually on its progress on sustainability and corporate social responsibility through a report (Communication on Progress (CoP).

Odido and MIND Us join hands to improve young people’s mental health

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0100

Odido and MIND Us Foundation are joining forces to improve the mental wellbeing of young people. Odido's digital knowledge and reach are to be combined with MIND Us' mental health expertise and experience. On Friday 17 November, MIND Us together with Odido organised a young people event with various mental health workshops. During this event, MIND Us and Odido launched their partnership and engaged in talks with young persons about the impact of technology on their mental health.

The mental health of Dutch young people is deteriorating, according to the Dutch Central Statistical Office CBS figures11. The covid pandemic, social media and high performance pressure are possible causes. Several studies suggest that technology can affect the mental health of young people in the Netherlands both positively and negatively. Odido recognises both sides and supports responsible use of technology. By joining forces, MIND Us and Odido aim to make an impactful contribution to this social problem.

Long-term partnership with MIND Us
The partnership between MIND Us and Odido includes an annual financial contribution to MIND Us, as well as the exchange of knowledge and expertise. Part of this joint effort is a contribution to an advanced digital platform developed by MIND Us with seven other partners. It will be a platform for young people that gives information on mental health, tips and tricks and support for incipient symptoms. Odido will also engage with young people to hear the positive and negative effects they experience when it comes to phone use, social media and screen time. The telecom provider will use this input to give direction on how to work towards making young people’s mental health stronger.

Connection
Tisha van Lammeren, consumer market director at Odido and ambassador of the Digital Inclusion programme, says: "We love technology and its opportunities. But as Odido, we love people even better. And when technology cannot work for us, there is a lot we must do. We focus on both sides: when can technology add value and when is technology harmful? In society there is a discussion around technology in a 'binary' way. Either on or off. A screen has to be on or off. Phones can or cannot be used in classrooms. We want to add more balance to the role of and discussion about technology. And we will do the same around this topic of young people’s mental health. On the one hand, we use technology to improve mental health through our contribution to MIND Us' digital platform. On the other hand, by engaging with young people, we would like to find, together with MIND Us, to what extent technology causes lower mental health."

Frederieke Vriends, director of MIND US: “I am delighted with the partnership of Odido and MIND Us. Joining forces is essential in improving the mental health of young people. These are times when the pressures and challenges for young people are increasing, partly from the online world and as a result of screen time. This partnership provides an opportunity to strengthen the connection between technology and wellbeing. It is encouraging to see that an influential brand like Odido is actively committed to young people's mental health. Odido is a big brand with a big heart. Odido uses the overlap in target audience to reach our audience in a very powerful way. Together, we can make a big difference in raising awareness and supporting young people's mental health. We look forward to the positive impact we can achieve together.”

Odido launches collaboration with NOC*NSF

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 17:04:00 +0200

Within the partnership with NOC*NSF, Odido aims to raise awareness about children’s screen behavior and reduce screen time. We are so engaged with our smartphones that we sometimes forget to be active, even though physical activity is crucial for both mental and physical health. As a partner of TeamNL, Odido wants to change this and is introducing National Screen-Free Day. On this day, we put our screens aside for two hours and engage in sports together. Under the guidance of well-known TeamNL athletes, sports lessons are organized at primary schools. A dedicated website also provides tips for participating in National Screen-Free Day with friends, family, or classmates.

More screen time than sports
In the Netherlands, children are spending increasing amounts of time on screens such as smartphones, tablets, and television. Research by the Netherlands Youth Institute (NJI) shows that children between 7 and 12 years old spend an average of 3.5 hours per day in front of a screen, with at least 2.5 hours on a mobile device. More than 84% of children fill their free time with screens. Children and young people in the Netherlands therefore spend more of their free time on screens than on sports.

Excessive screen use affects children’s development and can influence the social and physical health of the next generation. It is essential that children spend enough time communicating with others and learning to listen, as this contributes to social skills and opportunities. Too much screen time can therefore impact both health and overall development.

National Sports Week
Screen-Free Day will be introduced during the National Sports Week organized by NOC*NSF (September 15–24). Odido aims to make Screen-Free Day an annual initiative during this National Sports Week.

Baukje ter Huurne, Chief Marketing Officer at NOC*NSF, says: “The goal of National Sports Week is to get as many people as possible moving and to introduce them to sport. In over 130 municipalities and more than 1,000 schools, everyone can participate in sports activities. This year’s theme is ‘Sport Gives You a Boost’. We fully support Screen-Free Day as an initiative from our partner Odido to get young people more active.”