Bouygues Telecom posts rise in Q1 revenues, earnings

Bouygues Telecom reported a 5% revenue increase for the first quarter, reaching 1.1 billion euros ($1.5 billion).

The operator also reported that net results were up 55% to 143 million euros ($193 million), while EBITDA was up by 18% to 360 million euros ($485 million).

Bouygues Telecom also disclosed that its growth target for the full year 2007 remained unchanged at more than 2%.

Research company Ovum said these results validate the aggressive strategy initiated a year ago with the restructuring of its offerings and the introduction of new unlimited plans,

'Bouygues Telecom continues to perform well in the tough French mobile market,' Vincent Poulbere, Ovum analyst, said.

In 2006 Bouygues literally 'bought' growth, affecting its margins and operating profit last year to go down by 11%.

'However, the first quarter results show that its strategy last year has enabled it to create a positive commercial dynamic, which continues in early 2007,' Poulbere said.