Digicel Launches in Honduras With US$450 Million Investment

Digicel has commercially launched its GSM network in Honduras following an investment of US$450 million, leading to a national network of more than 500 retail distributors and 40,000 recharge outlets nationwide.

With a population of nearly 7.5 million people and mobile penetration currently at approximately 60 percent, Digicel says that it is confident it can stimulate growth in the mobile market in Honduras by increasing mobile penetration within five years from its current level to 80 percent. Digicel has also created significant jobs, employing 450 people directly in its operations and 3,000 people indirectly.

"We are delighted to launch in Honduras and we see this market as having high-growth potential," said Digicel Central America Chairman, Denis O'Brien. "With this launch, and our imminent launch in Panama, Digicel is cementing its footprint in the Central American mobile market. Our goal is to become a significant competitor in the region by delivering superior networks and a better service to our customers."

Digicel Honduras is led by Miguel Garcia who has 20 years experience in telecommunications. His previous accomplishments include senior management positions in BellSouth operations across Central and South America.

Digicel first entered the Central American market through its acquisition of the El Salvador operation, Digicel Holdings Ltd, in 2006. Since rebranding to Digicel El Salvador in April 2007, the company quickly tripled its customer base to move from being the fourth to the second mobile operator in the market. Digicel subsequently won licenses to operate in Honduras and Panama in December 2007 and May 2008 respectively.

Digicel Central America Holdings Limited is owned by Denis O'Brien, as is Digicel Group Limited and Digicel South Pacific Limited.

Posted to the site on 20th November 2008