Karib Cable launches ‘Double Play’

by J. Soso-Vincent 25.JULY.08

In the 11 years that Karib Cable has been operating in SVG, it has always provided stiff competition for its rivals. With the launch of its most recent customer package, this competition has been upped a notch{{more}}. At a press conference at Grenadine House on Monday, July 21, Karib Cable Marketing Manager Justin John announced the introduction of the company’s ‘Double Play’ bundle rate package, which will now give customers the option to pay one flat price for Karib Cable Internet and Cable Television services.

Implemented since July 1, existing customers who have subscribed to both internet and cable services will now be receiving one bill as opposed to two. The package will cost $155 per month, saving customers almost $10 off what they previously paid. Cable services in St. Vincent and the Grenadines became V.A.T inclusive in May 2007, and that raised the price of cable television to $74.75 and broadband internet to $90.85. With the new ‘Double Play’ combination, cable television has been reduced to $69 and broadband internet to $86.

Additionally, Karib Cable has teamed up with Digicel to bring the public even bigger savings. With the purchase of any Digicel handset, new customers will receive a Karib Cable voucher offering 50% off the cost of the modem for internet connection. Similarly, customers who sign up to Karib Cable internet or cable television services will receive either $25 credit (for pre and post paid phones) or 20% off any handset purchased at a Digicel store. This deal is only available to new Digicel customers. Marketing Manager Justin John emphasized: “As it is with Karib Cable, Digicel has some wonderful summer promotions coming up. So now is the time to get on to any one of these networks!”

John also informed the public that, at a cost of $113.85, the modem would be offered on a ‘lease to own’ payment scheme. Customers will be required to pay a month’s advance on the internet service, an initial payment of $4.60, then five monthly installments of $21.85 until the modem is fully paid for. He took the opportunity to remind customers that, for their convenience, their bills can be paid at the main office, 13 locations throughout SVG (including Post Offices and banks) and via online payment.

Following the update of internet services last December, John boasted that feedback has been “…tremendous” – from existing and new customers, including those who have switched from the rival internet service providers. He encouraged customers to continue giving feedback and to not hesitate in reporting quality issues, as their fully trained staff will be more than capable of handling the issue. “We provide a top quality service that we want you to appreciate.”

Minister of Telecommunications, Science, Technology and Industry Jerroll Thompson expressed that it is his Ministry’s goal to see every household connected to the internet. Thompson highlighted the importance of broadband internet in keeping the region connected, especially in light of the impending Caribbean Single Market Economy. He further spoke of the role that the internet plays in facilitating members of the Vincentian Diaspora in keeping their fingers on the pulse of local issues and happenings, through online newspapers and radio stations. “Broadband is the new currency of communication and learning,” he enthused.

According to Thompson, in the face of regional telecommunications enterprises suffering losses, Karib Cable is steadily progressing and able to keep their prices competitive. He expressed his pleasure with the ‘Double Play’ package and highly anticipates the launch of the ‘Triple Play’ package, when Karib Cable introduces its fixed line service.

In his remarks, Karib Cable co-owner Kelly Glass declared: “We believe the internet is one of the best ways to enhance education…” He deemed the internet as the “…tool to level the education playing field” and, hence, is aiming for Karib Cable internet services to be in every home with a computer. Given its commitment to education, Karib Cable has made its services the most affordable, and is determined to keep them that way.