Finland’s DNA is to merge cableco Welho in with its telecommunications operations with the loss of 40 jobs. Since Welho’s acquisition by Sanoma took place last summer, Welho has been operating as an independent unit within the DNA Group.
Around 750 people are currently employed within DNA’s business operations, while Welho has some 200 staff. Negotiations commenced yesterday (January 3) and will involve all the staff of both companies, with the exception of those employed in DNA’s retail units.
“In our opinion, only the genuine merger of separate organisations will create a basis for a shared corporate culture, while enabling us to capitalise on the strengths of both businesses on a broad scale. This organisational merger will be of particular importance to our broadband and television businesses, in which Welho’s expertise will further reinforce our operations, commented Riitta Tiuraniemi, President and CEO of DNA.
Following the Welho acquisition, DNA has secured a 43 per cent share of Finland’s cable TV market and an 18 per cent market share of fixed-network broadband services.