Release of 23.06.2014
Today the Telekom Austria Group (VSE: TKA, OTC US: TKAGY) announces that it has agreed to acquire 100% of Blizoo Macedonia.
Blizoo Macedonia is the largest cable operator in the Republic of Macedonia offering fixed voice, broadband and TV services. The acquisition represents a significant step in the execution of Telekom Austria Group's convergence strategy. Telekom Austria Group has been offering mobile services in the Republic of Macedonia via its subsidiary Vip Operator since 2007.
Blizoo Macedonia has a 14% share in the fixed broadband market and a 17% share in the TV market. Blizoo Macedonia currently has 63,000 subscribers, of which 47,000 are broadband subscribers. The company's network currently covers 164,000 homes with COAX and DOCSIS 3 technology, enabling average speeds of up to 50 Mbit/s per household. 75% of Blizoo Macedonia customers subscribe to multiplay-products.
In 2013 Blizoo Macedonia revenues amounted to approximately EUR 10 million. As agreed between the buyer and seller, further details regarding the purchase price and Blizoo Macedonia financials will not be released.
Telekom Austria Group will finance the transaction via existing cashflow. The total purchase price will be paid upon closing of the transaction, which is expected for Q3 2014. The transaction is subject to merger control clearance.