Network deal lets S4C offer increased mobility
Welsh-language channel S4C has teamed up with mobile network RWG Mobile in a move that will allow viewers to watch content via mobile devices.
It will mean that RWG customers will able to watch S4C content such as coverage of live sporting events via their smartphones. For S4C, the collaboration means developing content for new and different media, and being able to communicate directly with viewers using RWG.
Last year RWG received investment from Finance Wales and S4C’s commercial subsidiary SDML.
The business is the brainchild of Rhondda-born Andrew Davies, a qualified chartered accountant with experience of negotiating, launching and running successful telecoms businesses in the UK, Europe and the USA.
It launched the first full-scale mobile telecommunications network in Wales last year, designed specifically for people who live and work in Wales. The company plans to secure 90,000 new customers in the first three years.
Mr Davies, who is chief executive of RWG , said: “There are clear synergies and expertise that S4C and RWG have in common.
“By bringing together a leading media company and Wales’ first mobile network, we open the door to creating a fantastic cross-platform communications company for the future. We aim to share information and develop our capabilities together. RWG Mobile, like S4C, is all about providing a service that is tailored to customers in Wales and reflects their lives.
“The bigger mobile networks use their size and buying power to leverage deals and offers from lots of different providers, such as tickets to concerts or sporting events for example, but these offers are not always relevant to people living and working in Wales. Our model is based on local partnerships and, as our subscriber base grows, we will develop an incentive programme that meets the needs of our users.”
RWG delivers mobile communication via its own SIM card that offers pan-Wales and UK coverage, as well as international roaming capability and 4G connection at no extra cost.
To complement the service, the company has also developed and launched an app that can be downloaded to both Apple and Android smartphones and tablets, allowing customers to use multiple numbers to make and receive calls over the internet using Wi-Fi connection.
Mr Davies said: “The business and farming communities in Wales will appreciate the value and advantages of the app, as it allows calls to be made using their business number where mobile signals are weak, helping to negate the notorious ‘not spots’ effect within Wales.”
Elin Morris, corporate and commercial director at S4C said: “This partnership with RWG means that S4C viewers will be able to watch our content without eating into their mobile phone’s data allowance.
“This is a fantastic benefit when one considers the increasing amount of rugby and football that is viewed on mobile devices.”
Phil Barnes, investment executive at Finance Wales, added: “It’s great to work with two successful Welsh brands on this partnership.
“This deal will be of real benefit, not just to the companies but their Welsh customers and audiences.”