‘Get in early’: Coles to sell $359 iPhones

Coles has unveiled a new promotion. Image: Getty

Coles has partnered with Boost Mobile to provide $359 refurbished iPhone 8s, in a move it hopes will cut the cost of back to school season.

The youth-focused telco brand offered refurbished iPhone 7s in November 2020 but sold out rapidly, with Coles urging customers to act fast to secure the deal.

“There is clearly very strong demand for well-priced, high quality refurbished smartphones and we are happy to roll this out to be a truly national opportunity for our customers after our initial trial, as we continue to deliver value for our customers in a more sustainable way,” Coles general manager non-food, Jonathan Torr said.

“We know that the refurbished iPhones sell out very quickly so customers’ need to get in early to avoid disappointment, there are no rainchecks.”

The founder of Boost Mobile, Peter Adderton added that the sale was “perfect timing for kids going back to school”.

In the announcement, Boost and Coles said purchasing refurbished phones is a more sustainable and cheaper alternative to buying new. The phone comes with a $10 Boost Mobile SIM and customers can either bring their number or choose a new one. They can also choose between long-expiry, 28-day or 7-day recharges.

“We want all Australians to stay connected without the unnecessary high costs and we are happy to once again deliver a versatile, quality and incredibly well-priced offering through the refurbished iPhone 8 as Australians seek cost effective options more than ever before,” Adderton said.

The phones will be available in store from Wednesday 27 January.

It comes as Australian families spend $778 million back to school shopping, according to Finder insights.

“The start of a new school year is a huge financial burden for many families while they’re still dealing with the debt hangover from Christmas,” Finder money expert Bessie Hassan said.

“From lunchboxes to uniforms the costs can really stack up – especially if you have a few children.”

Finder found that an average back to school shop featuring items like a new lunch box, school bag and new pens will set back the average family $330 for a primary school student and $630 for high schoolers.

Once items like laptops, headphones and tablets are added into the equation, that sum looks closer to $970, according to Big W’s count.

“Make use of swap and sell groups where you can find pre-loved school supplies without the hefty price tag of buying brand new,” Hassan said.

“Strategic back-to-school shopping is an opportunity to teach your child how to budget and spend responsibly.

“Doing the maths and reviewing prices together online can help teach your kids the difference between needs and wants to help them avoid impulsive purchases down the track.”