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BUSINESS NEWS & VIDEO - The Western Cape's leading fibre company, Octotel, has officially spread its wings to George to expand their network which results in employment.
Octotel is focused solely on the delivery of world-class fibre infrastructure in partnership with the community and some of the country's leading internet service providers to bring an unrivalled connectivity experience at the best price.
The company has seen net customer growth in the Garden Route District since it started rolling out fibre in the outlying areas. It has also increased its employee base since opening its first office in Plettenberg Bay and it has now become time for George to shine.
Not only is Octotel bringing business to George, it is also providing job opportunities for many and uplifting the community in general. This includes the sponsoring of non-profit organisations and schools that need fibre to make learning fun and effective with a digital presence.
Operations manager Jacques Deysel says the expansion comes after the amazing success they've had in the Garden Route so far. "With the significant growth of the Octotel network in the district, now stretching from Stilbaai to Plettenberg Bay, it made sense for us to have a presence in George because of its centrality," he says.
VIDEO: Octotel opens a branch in George
The new Octotel branch in George was opened in a festive spirit on Saturday 4 March.
Apart from providing a stable and resilient network, Octotel prides itself on giving back to the communities in ways that are measurable and sustainable.
"To date, we've identified 11 disadvantaged schools and one NGO with exceptional stories in the George area that we are looking to partner with," says Deysel.
Excellent service is their top priority and, according to Deysel, this sometimes involves "a man in a van".
"Having teams in George logistically allows us to efficiently deliver exactly that. In terms of products, we have some aces up our sleeves. The Garden Route has such a diverse user base and being the agile company we are, we're always looking to satisfy those needs, whether it is previously under serviced areas or vacation home owners. Watch this space!"
PHOTO GALLERY: Octotel fibre now in George
Octotel COO Scott Cunningham explained why they chose George. "This really is a milestone in the journey of Octotel. The reason for this branch is to make sure we are accessible to you [the public]. We are very excited to be here and we want people to come into the office and talk to us about areas that they want us in," he said.
The official and very festive grand opening was held on Saturday morning where they were welcomed to town by George Deputy Mayor Raybin Figland and Ward Councillor for Conville, Brendon Adams.
Figland thanked Octotel for opening a branch in George and for bridging the digital divide between rural and urban areas.
"Octotel is not a technology company only, but it's a company that brings hope," Figland said.
"Hope to the unemployed, hope to the people of George. You are here to connect residents, especially the youth, who will have access to the internet. Octotel is bringing endless opportunities to George."
For more information, visit the website, www.octotel.co.za, or visit the shop in Courtenay Centre on the corner of Courtenay and Mitchell streets.
Ward Councillor for Conville Brandon Adams thanked Octotel for creating job opportunities in George. " As the MMC of libraries I would also love to see more Octotel Wi-Fi spots to encourage our people to learn and enable them to do educational research at schools and ECD centres as well," he added.
George Deputy Mayor Raybin Figland at the launch of the Octotel branch in George on Saturday morning.
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