MTS secures prime block of spectrum in 700 MHz auction

More Manitobans to benefit from next generation high-speed wireless services

Stock Symbol: MBT  

WINNIPEG, Feb. 19, 2014 /CNW/ - MTS, Manitoba's leading full-service telecommunications provider, today announced that it has acquired a prime block of spectrum in the recently-completed Industry Canada 700 MHz spectrum auction for approximately $8.8 million.

"We are very pleased with this result, which is great for Manitobans and great for our shareholders," said Pierre Blouin, Chief Executive Officer. "We have the largest and best wireless coverage in Manitoba, including a large WiFi network, and today's announcement will only make that better."

"MTS has invested more in building networks in Manitoba than any other telecommunications provider, and today we have invested in a prime block of 700 MHz spectrum at a relatively inexpensive price compared to what we believe others have paid.  Going forward, MTS will be better positioned and have more flexibility to deliver the next generation of wireless services to Manitobans for years to come, including a large percentage of the rural population," added Mr. Blouin.

MTS plans to use this spectrum in its Manitoba network to add more high-speed data capacity and support advanced wireless services for both existing and new customers.

About MTS
MTS is the leading full-service communications provider for residential and business customers in Manitoba. The company's suite of products and services include the latest in wireless technology, high-speed Internet, an award-winning IPTV service, voice services, home security, and an extensive range of business solutions.  A technology leader, MTS operates advanced wireless networks delivering the best coverage for Manitobans with its 4G, CDMA and Wi-Fi wireless networks and is investing to build out its extensive fibre-to-the-home network in over 20 Manitoba communities. MTS's momentum is fuelled by the knowledge, skills and spirit of its 3,000 Manitoba-based employees. With over 100 years of operations, MTS is rooted firmly in the community and is a proud sponsor of the MTS Centre, home to the NHL's Winnipeg Jets. MTS is wholly owned by Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. which is listed on the TSX (trading symbol: MBT). For information on MTS's products and services, please visit www.mts.ca.

Forward-looking Statements Disclaimer
This news release includes forward-looking statements and information (collectively, the "statements") about the Company's corporate direction, business opportunities, operations, future plans to use 700 MHz spectrum, financial objectives and future financial results and performance that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. As a consequence, actual results in the future may differ materially from any conclusion, forecast or projection in such forward-looking statements. Therefore, forward-looking statements should be considered carefully and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Examples of statements that constitute forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "believe", "expect", "project", "should", "anticipate", "could", "target", "forecast", "intend", "plan", "outlook", "see", "set", "pending", and other similar terms.

Factors that could cause anticipated opportunities and actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, matters identified in the "Material assumptions" section, and the "Risks and uncertainties" section, in the Company's 2013 Annual MD&A and 2013 Annual Information Form, all of which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Please note that forward-looking statements reflect Management's expectations as at the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

SOURCE: MTS Allstream

Media:  

Selena Hinds
Corporate Communications
204 941-8576
[email protected]

Paul Peters
Investor Relations
204-941-6178
[email protected]