The CEO of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) plans to launch the firm's 4G network in Bimini next week, followed by the Berry Islands and Abaco. Geoff Houston said BTC is "on the move again". The company intends on bringing the new high-speed network to all significant populations in the country. The result, he added, will be among the best and fastest network coverage in the Caribbean.
"I would hope we will get everywhere by the end of the summer," Houston told Guardian Business. "It partly depends on how the weather goes. We were delayed a bit in Bimini because of the rain." Houston said the 4G network represents a major $44 million investment. Back in November, BTC placed its first 4G call from one technician to the other. Houston said The Bahamas "leapt light years ahead with a single call", and described each test as a "100 percent success with no delays, no faults, just as smooth as can be".
But with 4G already in full swing, the BTC chief also highlighted the other "unspoken" feather in the company's cap. He said the launch of the CDMA mobile network, in tandem with 4G, provides far more efficient and comprehensive coverage. While BTC has always had a small CDMA network for U.S. visitors, this addition, representing around $4 million in investment, will double that coverage. Not only will it benefit Bahamians, but also North American tourists looking for roaming service. Meanwhile, the company will continue with its store openings.
More than $2 million has been spent on the construction of six stores so far unveiled by BTC. That figure represents approximately 25 percent of the funds that have been designated for the construction of 14 retail spaces. Houston hinted that more store openings are on the way, but was unable to comment on exactly where they might be. Regarding franchise opportunities, he admitted that finding partners have taken more time than anticipated.
"We are in active negotiations with two or three entities, but we're moving forward. It is challenging us as a company because we are not used to dealing with business partners like this," he said. "But by the end of the day, we will definitely have franchise partners."
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