Digicel extends footprints in Caribbean sands
The deal will extend Digicel’s footprint in the Caribbean by adding islands including Bermuda, Antigua and St Kitts and Nevis to the company’s existing markets. Digicel is already active in nine countries that include Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Jamaica and Haiti. “Digicel is delighted to have reached this agreement with Cingular because it presents a unique opportunity to acquire a geographic portfolio of interests in line with Digicel’s growth strategy,” said Mr O’Brien. “Our industry-leading service and unmatched customer care continue to put us in a position of strength as we roll out a seamless pan-Caribbean telecommunications network.”
Yesterday’s deal will also allow Digicel and Cingular customers to roam on each other’s networks at discounted rates in areas where one or other has no signal.
Cingular is a well-known brand in North America and was formed as a result of a joint venture between telecom heavyweights SBC Communications and Bell South Corporation.
Digicel has invested more than $600 million (€500 million) in the Caribbean region, where it is the fastest-growing mobile operator. The company employs over 1,000 people and grew its subscriber base by 33% last year.
It plans to bump up staff numbers by 30% in the year ahead. Digicel’s nine existing markets have a combined population of around 12 million people.
The company has an average market share of 60% in the markets in which it operates and is the biggest mobile operator using GSM technology in the region.
Yesterday’s deal is subject to the approval of regulatory authorities but is expected to be concluded over the next six months. The value of the deal was not disclosed.
