New wireless operator to offer mobile service by Christmas in Canada-- 26/03/2009

Globalive Wireless announced this week it has been issued wireless spectrum licenses from Industry Canada and is now is working towards launching its wireless phone service in Toronto and Vancouver by Christmas.

The federal government approval comes well after the Toronto based company paid $442.1-million for 30 licenses from Vancouver to Halifax in last summer’s wireless auction.

"Having been issued our licenses, we are one huge step closer to improving the wireless experience for Canadians" said Anthony Lacavera, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Globalive Communications Corp.

Globalive, best known for its Yak long distance service, expects to compete with Rogers Wireless, Fido, Telus Mobility and Bell Mobility in every province but Quebec.

Fido operates as a Canadian MVNO, although it has its own wireless network, which was acquired by the Rogers Corporation. There are three more low cost MVNO companies in Canada offering wireless carriers under brands Koodo Mobile by Telus Corporation and Solo Mobile from Bell Canada. These brands have low cost monthly plans, targeting teenagers and students with its monthly pay as you go plans and a lot of text messaging options.

The first step will be to offer service in Canada’s two biggest cities this year and roll-out to the rest of the country in 2010. To meet its roll-out plans, Globalive anticipates hiring more than 1,000 employees across Canada within the next 12 months.