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 in Texas. Today, the company serves a vast area of 4,000 square miles in the south plains of Texas with fiber-to-the-premise facilities. Poka Lambro is known as the premier provider of broadband internet and telecommunications services in the region, which is home to thriving residential communities and a robust business climate driven by agribusiness and energy production.
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 company based in Madison, Wisconsin, has been operating in Texas since 2013 when it acquired Baja Broadband, LLC. The acquisition of Baja Broadband allowed TDS to provide cable TV, voice, and internet services in Texas, further expanding its presence in the state.
As part of the purchase agreement, eight local TDS Field Service associates will 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 in 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 assured customers in the three communities that Poka Lambro would serve them with cutting-edge technology and excellent customer service, reflecting the company’s reputation in the industry.
The transaction was advised by Charlesmead Advisors, LLC, who served as advisors to the buyers. 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 offers up to 8 Gigabit internet speeds and a range of communication solutions for businesses.
In conclusion, the transfer of TDS‘ cable operations in Texas marks a significant development in the telecommunications industry in the state. The agreement between TDS, Poka Lambro, and Nevill Holdings, Inc. reflects a strategic move to enhance connectivity and provide innovative solutions to customers in rural communities across Texas. The companies involved are committed to maintaining the high standards of service and technology that customers have come to expect, ensuring a smooth transition for both customers and associates.