TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) has recently announced a significant development in its operations in Texas. The company has entered into a purchase agreement with Poka Lambro Telecommunications, Ltd. and Nevill Holdings, Inc. to transfer ownership of its cable operations in the state. This joint agreement involves the transfer of TDS‘ cable properties in Seminole, Seagraves, and Denver City to Poka Lambro, and the cable properties in Alpine and Fort Stockton to Nevill Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Big Bend Telephone Company and Big Bend Telecom Ltd. (BBT). The agreement, signed on Monday, is expected to close within the fourth quarter of 2024.
Poka Lambro, founded in 1950, has a rich history of providing telephone service to rural farms and ranches. Today, the company serves 4,000 square miles of the south plains of Texas with fiber-to-the-premise facilities, making it the premier provider of broadband internet and telecommunications services in the region. With thriving residential communities and a robust business climate driven by agribusiness and energy production, Poka Lambro plays a vital role in connecting and serving the local population.
On the other hand, BBT has been a key player in connecting and serving rural communities in West Texas for over 60 years. The company offers high-speed fiber internet, voice, and data center solutions to residents, institutions, and businesses. BBT’s mission is to bridge the digital divide and continually invest in innovative solutions to make the digital world more accessible to rural areas across West Texas.
TDS, a Madison, Wisconsin-based company, has been operating in Texas since 2013 when it acquired Baja Broadband, LLC. This acquisition marked TDS‘ entry into the Texas market, where it has been providing cable TV, voice, and internet services to customers.
As part of the agreement, eight local TDS Field Service associates will also transfer to the acquiring companies. TDS President and CEO Jim Butman expressed confidence that customers will continue to receive the same level of quality service they have come to expect. He also emphasized the company’s commitment to assisting its associates in their transition to the new companies.
Rusty Moore, General Manager and COO of BBT, expressed excitement about welcoming the TDS customers and associates to the BBT family. He highlighted that the acquisition aligns with BBT’s mission to provide exceptional service and innovative solutions to the communities they serve, enhancing connectivity and continuing the legacy of quality service across West Texas.
Similarly, Patrick Sherrill, CEO of Poka Lambro, stated that the company is uniquely positioned to provide exceptional service to customers in the newly acquired markets. He pledged to serve the new customers with cutting-edge technology and excellent customer service, reflecting Poka Lambro’s reputation in the industry.
Charlesmead Advisors, LLC served as advisors to the buyers on the transaction, facilitating the smooth transfer of ownership of the cable operations in Texas.
TDS Telecom, a subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (TDS), delivers high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a mix of small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural communities throughout the U.S. With a mission to create a better world through its communications services, TDS leverages fiber-optics and industry-leading technologies to deliver up to 8 Gigabit internet speeds and a range of communication solutions for businesses.
In conclusion, the purchase agreement between TDS Telecommunications LLC and Poka Lambro Telecommunications, Ltd. and Nevill Holdings, Inc. marks a significant development in the telecommunications landscape in Texas. With a focus on providing exceptional service, innovative solutions, and bridging the digital divide, the acquiring companies are poised to continue serving the communities in Texas with cutting-edge technology and quality customer service.
