SkyTelecom is the new up-and-coming fixed telephony provider that brought for the first time in Greece the technology of innovative wireless internet (WISP) of ultra-high speed without cables. Today, it is the only telecommunications company in the country that offers commercial programs with speeds of 500 Mbps. Its activity began in Arcadia, while it has now expanded to areas of the prefectures of Attica, Thessaloniki, Corinthia, Arcadia, Messinia, Chania, Rethymno and Heraklion. The number of its active subscribers is growing rapidly, placing it already in the first place among all WISP companies in the Balkans.
Startupper.gr: Is 2021 the year of SkyTelecom?
K. Kordopitoulas: Clearly 2021 is our year! At least until the next one comes (laughs). This year, we proceeded to the next strategic step of our business plan and expanded the coverage of our network to areas that gather the largest part of the country’s population, such as Attica and Thessaloniki. But that is not all we have achieved. We also achieved our goal of 10,000 subscribers, a number that places us at the top of the position of the WIS industry not only in Greece, but also throughout the Balkans. This is a great vindication for us and the efforts we have made over the past few years.
Startupper.gr: What is SkyTelecom’s strong weapon against the competition?
K. Kordopitoulas: Innovation, no doubt. Since 2019, when we brought the ultra-high speeds of 500 Mbps for the first time in Greece, we have gradually established ourselves in the minds of consumers as the game-changing company in telecommunications. To date, none of the three telecommunication giants in Greece has these speeds commercially. From then on, however, innovation must also be adapted to consumer demands, so that it is useful and reliable. That is why we have created a series of programmes that meet every need of individuals and businesses. Among our strengths are also our new proprietary network that is constantly expanding to new territories, as well as the positive user experience that is reflected in our reviews and internal satisfaction surveys.
Startupper.gr: How SkyTelecom responded to the needs of its customers during the COVID-19 pandemic?
K. Kordopitoulas: It is a fact that during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during its first phase in 2020, the criticality of telecommunications companies in supporting work, learning and entertainment at home was highlighted. Therefore, their inability to respond to the increased needs of their subscribers was clearly shown, since their networks were malfunctioning in many cases. SkyTelecom, however, due to the fact that it has its own state-of-the-art wireless privately owned network and does not rely on third-party providers, has never encountered such issues. In addition, our customer service has also worked exemplary during the pandemic, offering its services in the most direct and effective way through our online channels, through our website and social media. It is worth noting that our subscribers are always covered with a speed guarantee. So, if they demonstrably do not get the speeds that we commit to offer them, then they can claim and receive the compensation they are entitled to.
Startupper.gr: How do you see competition in the telecommunications industry? This year will come to Greece the satellite internet of Elon Musk’s Starlink.
K. Kordopitoulas: You know, in practice, SkyTelecom is the only notable case that has managed to gain a significant share in such a competitive market as telecommunications. We managed to become a measurable opponent even for giants such as Cosmote, Wind and Vodafone. We have not only created competitive programs, but we are offering something more both in speed and quality, which are the main demands of our audience. So it is no exaggeration to say that we are the real protagonists of our industry of 2021. We have accomplished a lot in a short period of time. So why should we be afraid of Elon Musk’s entry into the game? After all, the stronger the competition, the better we become, so consumers win more.
Startupper.gr: What are your goals for 2022?
K. Kordopitoulas: Our main goal for next year is to increase our growth rate, which we intend to achieve by gaining a significant share of new subscribers in the new areas where we operate, in Attica and Thessaloniki. From then on, the strategic development plan foresees the expansion of new privately owned wireless network infrastructure beyond the two largest urban centers, announcements will be made soon.After all, investments in network infrastructure, as well as in the development of innovative competitive products and services, are part of our DNA. We also understand the need of consumers for programs that combine premium services, top reliability, but also value-for-money character. In this context, we are going to complement the already top range of our programs with new ones, thus covering the needs of every type of domestic consumer and business.