Maltacom yesterday announced it has acquired local Digital Terrestrial Television (DTTV) network operator Multiplus Ltd following the signing of a share purchase agreement between the two sides. Maltacom is now the sole shareholder of Multiplus Ltd, having purchased 100 per cent of the company’s shares.

This takeover confirms the commitment made by Maltacom last year to launch its own digital television service in the first half of 2007.

Speaking about this take-over, Maltacom chairman Sonny Portelli said: “As a result of this acquisition, Maltacom can proudly state that it is Malta’s only quadruple-play telecoms organisation, with a complete portfolio of services – namely fixed-line, mobile, broadband internet and television. It is a truly integrated operator and its intention is to remain the leader in the local telecommunications sector, as well as attract new customers via its television offering.”

Maltacom’s chief executive officer David Kay said this takeover was the best option so as to be in a position to compete in the television market:

“Over the last months we have collaborated closely with Multiplus and have successfully launched a number of joint offers. Such initiatives have helped us understand better the nature of the business we are setting up. We are confident that, like in other areas of our business, we will also succeed in the television sector.”

Mr Kay said that in the coming weeks, Maltacom will be rolling out its plans to enhance the level of digital TV service offered through the DTTV platform, both in terms of content as well as service provision. Maltacom will ensure that it will offer the best level of digital TV service in Malta, he added.