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Cable television broadcasting industry

Shaw Communications Inc. Acquires Cable Systems from Rogers Communications Inc.

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Shaw Communications Inc. has made significant strides in the Canadian broadcasting landscape with the approval of the exchange of cable systems between Shaw and Rogers Communications Inc. This deal, approved by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, marks a major milestone for Shaw as it adds approximately 143,000 new subscribers to its existing customer base, bringing its total to over 1,090,000 customers. The acquisition solidifies Shaw's position as the second-largest multiple system operator in Canada and strengthens its presence in B.C., Alberta, and northwestern Ontario.

Key Takeaways:

  • Shaw Communications Inc. acquired cable systems from Rogers Communications Inc. in exchange for its systems in Ontario, adding approximately 143,000 new subscribers.
  • The acquisition brings Shaw's total customer base to over 1,090,000, making it the second-largest multiple system operator in Canada.
  • Shaw will take over Rogers' systems in Victoria, Calgary, Thunder Bay, and Sault St. Marie, while Rogers will acquire Shaw's systems in Toronto, St. Thomas, Woodstock/Ingersoll, Tilsonburg, and Strathroy.
  • The deal marks a significant expansion for Shaw in B.C., Alberta, and northwestern Ontario, and positions the company to compete with emerging competitors.
  • Shaw proposes to undertake initiatives to enable small systems to offer digitally-compressed pay-per-view services, address concerns with television violence, and enhance communications between Alberta legislators and their constituents.
  • The company also acquires radio station CFNY-FM in Toronto, expanding its presence in radio broadcasting.

Statistics:

  • Shaw Communications Inc. will add 143,000 new subscribers to its existing customer base, bringing its total to over 1,090,000 customers.
  • Shaw will become the second-largest multiple system operator in Canada with a customer base of over 1,090,000.
  • The acquisition solidifies Shaw's presence in B.C., Alberta, and northwestern Ontario, with a total of 143,000 new subscribers in these regions.

Sources:

  • Business Wire (1994) - "Shaw Communications Inc. Exchanges Cable Systems with Rogers Communications Inc."
  • Shaw Communications Inc. (1994) - Press Release

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