Bell integrates DownEast Communications stores into its national retail network

HALIFAX, June 30 /CNW Telbec/ - Bell and Bell Aliant today announced the integration of all 52 DownEast Communications stores into Bell's national retail network, maximizing operational efficiencies and further enhancing the exceptional service delivered by the DownEast team.

DownEast Communications had been an independently operated sales channel offering clients across Atlantic Canada a full suite of Bell and Bell Aliant wireless, residential and business products under the direction of President and Chief Operating Officer Kevin D. Hamm.

With his role in the integration now complete, Mr. Hamm will be departing the company to pursue new opportunities. All other DownEast employees will transition to similar roles within the national Bell stores team and all store locations will operate under the Bell Aliant brand, offering communications products and services including Bell Mobility wireless, Bell Aliant TV and Bell TV, and Bell Aliant high-speed Internet.

"The integration of DownEast with the national Bell stores team can only enhance the exceptional client experience we've been able to consistently deliver," said Mr. Hamm. "The move ensures that the specialized support style we have developed based on the needs of Atlantic Canadians and the operational advantages of being part of the national Bell team come together to ensure optimum service to customers."

"Kevin has been an inspirational and highly effective leader for the DownEast team, providing a blueprint of customer service success on which the Bell stores team will draw. We thank him sincerely for his unrelenting pursuit of excellence and wish him continued success," said Jackie Foo, Vice President of Bell Stores.

"We are pleased to be partnering with Bell to deliver complete communications solutions for Atlantic Canadians," said Joe Mosher, Vice President of Marketing for Bell Aliant.

BCE (TSX, NYSE: BCE) is Canada's largest communications company, providing the most comprehensive and innovative suite of communication services to consumer and business customers. Operating under the Bell and Bell Aliant brands, the company's products and services include local and long distance telephone, wireless, video, high-speed Internet and information and communications technology (ICT) services. For more, please visit www.bce.ca.

Contacts

media inquires: Julie Smithers
Bell Media Relations
(888) 482-0809
julie.smithers@bell.ca

Alyson Queen
Bell Aliant Public Affairs
(866) 696-6700
alyson.queen@bellaliant.ca