From Cable TV to Fiber Optics: The Evolution of Telecommunication Services
Interview with DI Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter, Managing Director of LIWEST Kabelmedien GmbH
The telecommunications industry has developed rapidly in recent years, characterized by technological innovations and increased competition. LIWEST Kabelmedien GmbH, as a leading provider in Upper Austria, has successfully adapted to these changes. In the following interview with Wirtschaftsforum, Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter, the company's managing director, discusses the challenges and opportunities arising from this dynamic development.
Wirtschaftsforum: Dr. Gintenreiter, could you first tell us a bit about your background and your role at LIWEST?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: I have been the managing director of LIWEST for eight and a half years. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Linz AG, serving over 400,000 customers in Upper Austria. Originally, I did not come from telecommunications but from customer service at Linz AG. My focus has always been on process optimization and digitalization, which is of great importance today.
Wirtschaftsforum: The media and telecommunications landscape has changed significantly due to rapid technological development. What specific changes has LIWEST undergone in recent years to adapt to these new circumstances?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: LIWEST has evolved from a traditional cable TV provider to an integrated provider of telecommunications services. Today, we offer not only cable TV, but also fiber internet and mobile services. Our transformation began in 2019 with the acquisition of 5G licenses, and since then we have built our own 5G network.
Wirtschaftsforum: What technologies do you currently offer?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: We use various technologies, including fiber networks and our 5G standalone network. These enable us to offer landline telephony, internet, and TV services on an IP basis. Additionally, we have a cooperation with a mobile provider that allows us to offer SIM cards and SIM-only contracts.
Wirtschaftsforum: You speak of a transformation. What challenges do you see in this?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: One of the biggest challenges is the speed of change. Technological developments, especially in the area of artificial intelligence, are changing the requirements for the workforce. Many professions that we know today will transform or even disappear in the next few years. Therefore, it is crucial that we prepare for the new requirements and appropriately train our employees.
Wirtschaftsforum: What does customer service look like at LIWEST?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: We place great importance on personal service. Our technicians assist customers from establishing connections to setting up all devices. We understand that the quality of customer advice is crucial, especially when it comes to installing WLAN networks in one's own home.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you deal with competition?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: The competitive pressure in Austria is tremendous. We face fierce competition in both fixed and mobile communications. To succeed in this market, we must invest strategically and continuously improve our services.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are the next steps for LIWEST?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: We plan to further expand our fiber optic network while also extending our mobile offerings. Additionally, we want to integrate AI technologies into our customer service to increase efficiency and provide even better support to our customers.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you look into the future?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: We are optimistic and ready to tackle the challenges of the market. The consolidation in the telecommunications sector could help us improve our market position. We believe that we can grow through strategic acquisitions and investments in new technologies.
Wirtschaftsforum: What makes LIWEST special?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: Our focus on quality and customer service sets us apart from other providers. We offer not just products, but also take care of individual customer support. The trust our customers place in us is of utmost importance to us.
Wirtschaftsforum: Lastly, what would you like to share with our readers?
Dr. Stefan Gintenreiter: The telecommunications industry will continue to evolve rapidly, and we at LIWEST are ready to actively shape these changes. We invite everyone to be part of this exciting journey and discover the benefits of our services.