Rogers Communications has announced plans to purchase its Canadian rival Shaw Communications in a deal worth $26 billion.
The combination will bring together Rogers’ 5G network, the largest in Canada, with Shaw’s existing cable, fibre-to-home and wireless networks. With both companies starting life as small family run businesses, the deal is being positioned as one that will offer both transformational technology to Canadian businesses and consumers, while closing the connectivity gap.
“We’re at a critical inflection point where generational investments are needed to make Canada-wide 5G a reality,” said Joe Natale, President and CEO of Rogers Communications
Once the transaction is complete, the companies plan to invest $2.5 billion in 5G networks across Western Canada, which is expected to create up to 3,000 net new jobs.
“Without a doubt, my father would be proud of this moment, combining forces with the company founded by his old friend to deliver more Canadians world class connectivity, more choice, and better value,” added Brad Shaw, Executive Chair & CEO, Shaw.
Rogers will also commit to establishing a new $1 billion Rogers Rural and Indigenous Connectivity Fund to connect rural, remote and Indigenous communities across Western Canada to high-speed Internet and closing critical connectivity gaps faster for underserved areas.
