Telus is pushing forward with expanding its fibre internet in key areas, even as it sells access to other internet providers elsewhere in Canada. The company says this strategy makes the most sense for getting a return on its investment.
The update came from Telus CFO Doug French, during the company’s Q4 earnings call on Thursday and interview with the Canadian Press. Telus saw wireless and internet growth which helped propel profits to $320 million for the quarter.
French explained the company’s fibre network includes both wholesale customers (other companies using their fibre) and retail customers (direct Telus customers), which is a benefit. “We believe having both types of customers maximizes the value of our fibre,” he said.
This approach was reinforced by a recent CRTC ruling, which allows big telecoms to sell internet in areas where they don’t own fibre networks by paying to use local infrastructure. Telus supports the ruling, but the CRTC hasn’t made a final decision yet—it plans to review the policy again this summer.
Telus CEO Darren Entwistle is confident the CRTC will stick with its decision, calling it the best choice for Canadians, especially small businesses.
However, Bell strongly disagrees. CEO Mirko Bibic argues that the ruling could discourage companies from building their own fibre networks.
Bell has already announced it will slow down its fibre expansion, cutting $2.2 billion from its planned spending through 2027. The company says this will impact more than a million homes and businesses, especially in rural areas.
Bell’s legal chief, Robert Malcolmson, criticized the CRTC, saying its policy “undermines the business case for building fibre” and could hurt investment in Canada. The CRTC decision so far looks to favour Telus.
Meanwhile, Telus says it will keep building fibre as long as the current CRTC rules remain. The company is expanding in Alberta, B.C., and Quebec and recently started offering wholesale fibre in Ontario and Quebec, with plans for the Atlantic provinces.
French acknowledged that Telus won’t win over every customer but pointed out that if someone chooses another provider that still uses Telus fibre, it’s a win either way.
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Kudos to Telus. May Bell be gone soon….Please!!
I remember being told over 10 years ago that it was coming soon (Telus Fibre). In Calgary. Still isn't available.