For a number of years Shaw Communications has wanted to play in the Canadian wireless arena, and late today that goal came true. Shaw Communications has announced it has acquired WIND Mobile for $1.6 billion. Shaw will acquire 100% interest in Mid-Bowline Group Corp. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, WIND Mobile Corp.
“The global telecom landscape is quickly evolving towards ‘mobile-first’ product offerings as consumers demand ubiquitous connectivity from their service providers. The acquisition of WIND provides Shaw with a unique platform in the wireless sector which will allow us to offer a converged network solution to our customers that leverages our full portfolio of best-in-class telecom services, including fibre, cable, WiFi, and now wireless,” said Chief Executive Officer, Brad Shaw. “This transaction represents a transformational step in the history of Shaw and we are excited about our future growth prospects in mobile. This growth will be accelerated by combining Shaw’s existing customer relationships, trusted brand and wireline and WiFi infrastructure with WIND’s impressive asset base, including its existing spectrum position and mobile network.”
At the time of acquisition, WIND has 940,000 subscribers across Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta. WIND Mobile has had a very interesting story since its launch back in December 2009.