600 MHz spectrum auction: Quebecor acquires 10 licences for $256 million

MONTRÉAL, April 10, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - Upon completion of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's latest commercial mobile spectrum auction, Quebecor announces the purchase of 10 low-frequency blocks in the 600 MHz band.

The licences covering Eastern, Southern and Northern Québec, as well as Eastern Ontario and Outaouais were acquired by Quebecor for $256 million and will be used by its Videotron telecom subsidiary.

"Acquisition of this spectrum will enable Videotron to continue its expansion in mobile telephony markets in Québec and the Ottawa area, and support genuine, sustainable competition that benefits consumers," commented Pierre Karl Péladeau, President and CEO of Quebecor. "Thanks to sensible auction rules that allowed for a fair division of spectrum between incumbents and regional carriers, we are now able to reaffirm our determination to be a tech builder, one that is fully equipped to break new ground in order to better serve its customers."

The 600 MHz band is the frst of the three bands suitable for fifth-generation (5G) networks to be put up for auction in Canada. With the acquisition of these licences, Videotron is strongly positioned for the next technological revolution.

The licences purchased by Quebecor will increase its low-frequency portfolio by 300% in most parts of Québec. Low frequency bands have longer range in rural areas and better ability to penetrate buildings in urban areas. Quebecor now has a total of 130 MHz of mobile spectrum in most regions of Quebec and 90 MHz in the Ottawa area, spread across the AWS-1, AWS-3, 600 MHz, 700 MHz and 2500 MHz bands.

About Quebecor
Quebecor, a Canadian leader in telecommunications, entertainment, news media and culture, is one of the best-performing integrated communications companies in the industry. Driven by their determination to deliver the best possible customer experience, all of Quebecor's subsidiaries and brands are differentiated by their high-quality, multiplatform, convergent products and services.

Quebecor (TSX: QBR.A, QBR.B) is headquartered in Québec and employs more than 10,000 people in Canada.

A family business founded in 1950, Quebecor is strongly committed to the community. Every year, it actively supports more than 400 organizations working in the vital fields of culture, health, education, the environment and entrepreneurship.

Visit our website: www.quebecor.com 
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/Quebecor

SOURCE Quebecor

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