Qwest Communications and DIRECTV formed a strategic marketing alliance that will allow Qwest to offer DIRECTV digital satellite television services to residential customers across the western U.S.
Beginning in Q1 2005, Qwest will market and provide front-line customer support for the DIRECTV service and incorporate it as part of its full suite of bundled services. Customers will have one point of contact for service and a single bill for all telecommunications and television services.
The companies said they are also developing a plan to market Qwest's DSL services to existing DIRECTV customers. Qwest and DIRECTV also have a separate agreement in which Qwest provides DIRECTV service to apartments and other multiple dwelling units. http://www.qwest.comhttp;//www.directv.com
- In September, EchoStar Communications (DISH) announced that it has elected not to pursue expansion of its marketing relationship with Qwest. Instead, EchoStar will seek to expand relationships with current and future telecommunication partners that focus on meeting customer demand for single-bill, bundled services. The company said that it would continue to honor its current, year-old relationship with Qwest, in which Qwest has agreed to sell DISH Network satellite TV service to Qwest's customers through the end of the multi-year contract.
- In July 2003, Qwest Communications announced strategic marketing agreements with Echostar and DIRECTV.
