Digicel, now opening cellular markets in Central America & the Pacific Rim as well, today launched services in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) – its 25th market in the Caribbean and Central America and 30th market world-wide – with an investment of US$17million heralding a new era of choice and competition for mobile customers.

With a population of 23,000 and mobile penetration at an estimated 90%, Digicel?s investment in BVI is focused on building a brand new state-of-the-art network that provides coverage to 98% of the population, supported by 24/7customer care, first-to-market innovations such as self-service top up machines with 24-hour access and online bill payment, as well as a wide range of affordable handsets.

?We are delighted to launch in the British Virgin Islands today and are looking forward to showing customers here what being with the Bigger, Better Network means,? Colm Delves, Digicel Group CEO, said of today?s launch. ?I would like to thank the Government for all of its assistance with our entrance to this market. As the third entrant, we will drive competition for the good of consumers by providing the best coverage, the best care and the best value to the people of this country. This is an exciting time for us both here in BVI ? and more widely – as we continue to expand our global presence and delight customers with what we do and how we do it.?

Digicel BVI is led by Alan Bates, who has worked with Digicel since 2003, serving as Head of Sales and Distribution for the Dutch Caribbean region and Sales Director for Digicel Bermuda, where he played an instrumental role in leading the company?s operations to the number one position in the market.

With a thriving tourism and financial services industry, BVI has one of the most prosperous economies in the Caribbean. BVI covers a group of 16 inhabited and more than 20 uninhabited islands, with the main islands being Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke and Anegada.