I know this is only a name change, but I’m really hoping this brings big things for current UPC customers. Development and advertisement costs should be down and any software updates that are done for Virgin Media boxes in the UK should easily port to Ireland! Also, with UPC already having committed to launching a mobile network, it makes sense for it to be launched at Virgin Mobile. I’m hoping this happens sooner rather than later and that the TIVO boxes make their way to our shores!
Here’s the full press release:
UPC Ireland, the leading connected entertainment provider of digital TV, superfast broadband and phone services in Ireland, will move to the Virgin Media brand as a platform for further growth and enhanced delivery of great customer experiences, the Company confirmed today.
Magnus Ternsjö, CEO of UPC Ireland, said:
“Introducing the Virgin Media brand to Ireland is a big investment in our business and our future. In almost every corner of the world, the Virgin brand is famous for its entrepreneurial spirit in delivering more for customers, which is exactly what we’re going to do by building even further on all our innovation and achievements to date.”
Tom Mockridge, Virgin Media Chief Executive Officer, said:
“Everyone at Liberty Global is immensely proud of what the team at UPC Ireland has achieved, particularly the significant growth the business has delivered. Now, it’s time for a step-change. We have some exciting plans in the pipeline to boost competition for consumers which we will announce in due course.”
Richard Branson , Virgin Group Founder, said:
“We are delighted to bring the Virgin Media brand to Ireland. We are proud of the way it has revolutionised the UK market, improving customer service, increasing speeds and bringing more choice to our customers. Building on the strong platform in Ireland, I know we will do great things together with Liberty Global and shake up the Irish market even further.”
Stepping up competition in Ireland
Launching the Virgin Media brand in Ireland will help the Company make further progress to meet the unique needs of its customers. AsUPC, the Company has made a significant investment in its fibre powered next generation network which delivers the most innovative digital entertainment and communications services, including the fastest broadband, in Ireland.
UPC Ireland confirmed that all operations, products and services will move to the new Virgin Media brand with further details to be announced in due course.
UPC is owned by Liberty Global plc. As previously announced, UPC Ireland became part of Liberty Global’s UK subsidiary, Virgin Media, in December 2014. Liberty Global bought Virgin Media UK in 2013.
