Orange Launches a Mobile Network in Armenia

­Orange has launched its mobile network in Armenia, after winning an operating license last November. For the launch of its operations, Orange has invested around EUR 100 million, and provides coverage for over 80% of the population.

Orange said that despite the relatively high penetration rate in the country (80%), there is strong demand for the wide-ranging, innovative services that have forged the reputation of the Orange brand across the world. With a population of around 3.2 million people, including 1.1 million in the capital Yerevan, Armenia offers the Group significant growth potential.

Orange already employs over 300 people in the country and some 500 additional people are employed indirectly through suppliers and third-party retailers.

Commenting on the launch, Didier Lombard, Chairman and CEO of France Telecom said: "We are very pleased to be able to enrich the lives of Armenians by providing simple, innovative communications products and services, with unrivalled value and a clear focus on customer care. We are also proud to contribute to the economic development of the Republic of Armenia".

Figures from the Mobile World show that the country ended the first half of this year with a shade over 2.5 million subscribers. The country has two incumbent operators, VivaCell-MTS and ArmenTel.

Posted to the site on 5th November 2009