The recently expanded Altech Autopage aims to develop its retail presence and offer converged solutions to customers of the combined entity.
Earlier this month, Altech Autopage Cellular and Altech Technology Concepts (ATC) were integrated, as Altech pushes convergence offerings. ATC is now wholly-owned by Autopage.
Boyd Chislett, CEO of the merged firm, says the entity will launch a converged voice and data offering, and aims to move its least-cost routing (LCR) clients onto a voice over IP (VOIP) platform.
ATC offers physical network links, Internet access, managed services and cloud-based services to the business and consumer markets. Autopage, which has a million customers, on-sells offerings from cellular companies, such as MTN, Vodacom and Cell C.
All in one
Chislett says: “We are transforming our business model to capture growth opportunities and improve customer orientation and commercial focus.” He explains integrating the two operations will drive convergence and create scale.
“The intention is to become a one-stop shop for the communication needs of consumers and small and medium businesses,” says Chislett. He adds that the combined entity will open new stores, improving its retail presence, and will offer end-to-end solutions to consumers and small and medium companies.
ATC has transformed from a tier two to a tier one Internet service provider and is implementing a new network with its own international links, says Chislett. He explains this will provide a platform for the converged offering to Autopage clients.
Chislett says the company will benefit from cost savings as there will be “some realignment in terms of roles and responsibilities” to eliminate duplication of roles. However, he adds, there will be no job losses.
Chislett adds that moving “a large proportion” of LCR customers onto a VOIP platform is the result of lower mobile termination rates, which has impacted on fixed to mobile LCR revenue.
Related story:
Autopage buys out ATC
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