Bangkok--Feb 28--DTAC
Bangkok, February 28 , 2004 - Total Access Communication Plc.’s ("DTAC") mobile service revenues in 2004 were 37.8 billion baht. This is 24% higher than in 2003. Net profit was 4.5 billion baht, which is an increase of 73% compared to 2003.
Average revenue per customer (“ARPU”) increased by 15% for prepaid customers, on the strength of the Happy brand. ARPU for postpaid customers decreased marginally by 1%. Total number of customers increased 19% to 7.8 million, from 6.6 million.
DTAC’s EBITDA* increased by 25% due to higher revenues and increased cost efficiencies. The EBITDA margin increased to 39% from 38%.
DTAC’s Co-CEOs, Mr Vichai Bencharongkul and Mr Sigve Brekke, said that DTAC’s focus on customer service and innovation had led to the encouraging results. “Our people are going the extra mile to improve network quality and service for our customers. We still have a long way to become world-class, but we are very committed to this long term goal.”
“We have also continued to provide great innovations to different types of customer segments, such as the launch of ‘maximize’ package for postpaid customers, the introduction of Big SMEs Project for SME customers, and the opening of the Asia’s first Mobile Experience Center @ BPC for corporate customers. For prepaid customers, we introduced ‘Jai Dee Exchange’, ‘Jai Dee Borrowing’ and Baby SIM. Regarding the value-added services, we launched ‘ring4u’ music ringback tone, EDGE-based services and aircard.”
For 2005, DTAC’s Co-CEO’s anticipates strong competition but continued growth: “The competitive environment will be challenging, but we promise that we will be very attractive in the market place. We continue to be optimistic about DTAC’s future prospects.”
“We are encouraged by the signals from the National Telecommunication Commission that they intend to create fair, equal and competitive access for Thai consumers across the Kingdom. This is in line with the Master Plan of 1997 and the Telecom Law of 2001 and should provide great benefit for Thai consumers and businesses in 2005.”
* Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). End.