Business News

Quebecor Marks Passing of Telecommunications Pioneer Ted Rogers

Wednesday 03. December 2008 - Quebecor Inc. was saddened to learn today of the death of the founder of Rogers Communications, Ted Rogers. The President and CEO of Quebecor Inc., Pierre Karl Peladeau, along with the employees of the company and its subsidiaries, offer their most sincere condolences to the family and friends of a pioneer in the history of Canadian telecommunications.

“Today we honour the memory of a man who was not only a leader in telecommunications but also one of the greatest, if not the greatest, entrepreneur that Canada has known. Coming from a family of visionaries who also made their mark in the history of Canadian communications, Ted Rogers had a vibrant sense of entrepreneurship. He never feared forging ahead and he undertook enormous risks in a career crowned with great success. This is how he built one of the strongest businesses in the country. Ted Rogers was an exceptional human being and a great gentleman,” said Mr. Peladeau. “The death of Ted Rogers is a loss for all Canadians.”

Working in the same industry but sometimes in different territories, Rogers Communications and Videotron enjoyed a long cooperative relationship over the years, particularly in the area of regulatory affairs. While their business plans led the two companies onto competitive ground, they continued to work together for the advancement of Canadian telecommunications.

Said Robert Depatie, President and CEO of Videotron: “Not only was he a top-flight entrepreneur but his skilful leadership succeeded in ushering his company into the 21st Century brilliantly. He was an unparalleled leader. His contribution to the industry, his intelligence and his passion will be sorely missed.”