Caribbean Mobile Operator’s First Commercial Launch in Central America

THURSDAY, APRIL 12th, 2007— Digicel, the fastest-growing telecommunications operator in the Caribbean and new entrant to the Central American market, began offering mobile services in El Salvador today under the Digicel brand name. 

Delivering the most modern GSM network in the country with the most extensive national network coverage, Digicel will reach communities that have been previously underserved by the incumbents – offering 95 percent population coverage, high value offers and innovative mobile services such as true per second billing.  El Salvador has a population of 7 million people with mobile penetration at approximately 33 percent. The country’s mobile market continues to enjoy sustained growth with mobile phones overtaking fixed lines service in 2002. 

“We are delighted to be in El Salvador and very optimistic about the future potential for growth in this market,” said Digicel Group Chairman Denis O’Brien. “El Salvador is a very exciting marketplace for Digicel with low penetration, a young population and a buoyant economy. We look forward to growing our operation and bringing the best quality service to the people of El Salvador.”

Digicel first entered the El Salvador market through its acquisition of Digicel Holdings Ltd last year and the company’s initial commitment of more than US$150 million is focused on expanding and upgrading the network to reach Digicel’s standard of signature quality, reach and reliability – all of which are underpinned by world-class 24/7 customer care, a national network of more than 500 retail distributors and in excess of 6,000 recharge outlets.

According to the Minister of Telecommunications and Electricity for El Salvador, Mr. Fernando Argűello, “The launch of Digicel in El Salvador is a significant development for our mobile telecommunications market. Digicel brings an excellent track record for service and innovation from their experience in the Caribbean market, which can only contribute greatly to the competitiveness of the sector and offer better choice and value for the people of El Salvador”.  

Built with the most cutting-edge Ericsson equipment, Digicel is standing behind the quality and reach of its El Salvador network by initially offering customers a full refund of charges if they cannot access mobile service where they reside.

Digicel El Salvador has doubled its well-trained workforce to more than 300 employees led by CEO Mr. Luis La Rocca, who has 30 years senior management experience in the Latin American telecommunications industry.

With operations in 22 markets and more than 4 million customers, Digicel’s investment in the Caribbean and Central American region exceeds US$1.5 billion. In 2006, the company recorded a milestone of subscriber growth in excess of 100 percent. Digicel currently employs more than 3,000 people.