telecommunications provider in Switzerland, is outsourcing the operation of its mobile, fixed and data networks to Alcatel-Lucent as of August 1, 2008. By entrusting Alcatel-Lucent with its network, Sunrise will be able to ensure the long-term high quality deployment and management of the network as well as significantly save operational costs. The contract includes the transfer of 290 employees. The value of the agreement is approximately €340 million over 7 years, depending on the final scope of the project.

Sunrise decided, after careful consideration, to outsource primary components of its network to Alcatel-Lucent. This contract sets the stage for the Sunrise telecommunications network to be maintained in a cost effective, high quality manner. This relationship also ensures the development and fast deployment of new user-oriented services and solutions. Sunrise will continue to carry out key roles such as network planning and customer service. The network infrastructure including all telecommunication systems remains totally owned by Sunrise.

"We are pleased that with the Sunrise network operations outsourcing contract. We are now serving a total of 3.6 million Swiss customers. The selection of Alcatel-Lucent demonstrates the trust that Sunrise has in our expertise and service quality,” said Andy Williams, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s services business. "As our business continues to grow, locally and internationally, we look to continue building our managed services capabilities, and therefore develop an even broader knowledge base.”

The network operations outsourcing contract includes the Sunrise division’s operation, maintenance and expansion. The 290 employees will receive equivalent conditions as they had at Sunrise, and will be able to work in the same geographical region.

About Sunrise
Sunrise is the second-largest telecommunications provider in Switzerland. Over 2.2 million customers use Sunrise services in the areas of mobile telephone communications, fixed network and Internet. The mobile network, based on GSM, EDGE, UMTS and HSDPA, supplies over 99% of the population with mobile telecommunications services, permitting transmission rates of up to 3.6 Mbps. Sunrise is a brand of Sunrise Communications AG, the share capital of which is owned 100 % by TDC A/S.