Québecor CEO Pierre Karl Péladeau met with Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew in Winnipeg during Grey Cup week to discuss Quebecor’s plans in the province, including Freedom Mobile’s upcoming wireless network build-out and potential collaboration in the TV production sector.
The two talked about Freedom’s plans to start rolling out its network in Winnipeg before expanding across Manitoba. Québecor has already spent more than $35 million on wireless spectrum in the province, and the company says it intends to build and operate its own infrastructure.
Premier Kinew said he welcomes more competition in the province. “More competition should lead to lower prices, so we welcome Freedom leaning into Manitoba,” he said. “We all want greater coverage in our province, so these investments are welcome.”
Péladeau echoed that theme, saying the expansion is meant to improve wireless options across Western Canada. “Our network expansion into Manitoba with Freedom reflects our commitment to building a better wireless experience for Canadians,” he said, noting that the company shares the province’s goal of creating more affordable options.
The pair also discussed how TVA and Manitoba-based production companies could work together on future projects. Péladeau said there is potential for partnerships involving Quebecor’s MELS studios and TVA’s broadcast network. He added that both sides were open to exploring ways to support local talent and boost the production industry.
According to Québecor, several ideas were raised, and any future projects could bring millions of dollars in film and TV spending into the province.
Last May, Freedom Mobile launched services in Manitoba and earlier this year debuted new wireless plans.
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Interesting, does anyone know which bands they own in Manitoba? Hopefully both high and low, because I know in Ontario their coverage … kind of sucks. Most of it's on 2100 Mhz and even just a kilometer from the tower, my best friend doesn't get service in the basement.
Freedom has 600 MHz, 3500 MHz, and 3800 MHz in Manitoba. Wind mobile sold their 1700/2100 MHz before Shaw bought them and changed the name to Freedom.