On our way to being the reference operator in Europe Dear reader, What if digital was your only access to the outside world? An intriguing question and, in fact, this has been virtually the case for many of us in 2020. Connectivity and digital services have never been so crucial for everyday life. This made 2020 a key moment for the telecommunications sector. It was also a year of change for Proximus, with the launch of its new strategic vision, #inspire2022. 2020 was an atypical year to say the least, but we have seized the opportunity to move ahead. We took very strong measures to protect our employees and our customers, to keep everyone connected at all times and ensure the continuity of the activities of Belgian society as a whole. Fulfilling our social responsibility, we provided help and support (also to schools and hospitals) and promoted digital inclusion. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a defining moment for the telecom sector. It reinforced our belief in Proximus’ mission: to open up a world of digital opportunities so people live better and work smarter.
A changing market In an uncertain global context, our sector is transforming at an unprecedented pace. We have identified four major market trends: • A new investment cycle for next-generation networks is underway. It combines fiber, 5G and edge computing and gives rise to new solutions for greater efficiency, better customer experiences and a greener world. • A new economy of digital platforms, powered by data, with a key role for trusted data-rich local players and telecom operators. • New forms of competition that prompt us to diversify our offer of products and services and pave the way for new kinds of alliances. Guillaume Boutin
• A pivotal role for companies in terms of social responsibility:
Stefaan De Clerck
CEO Chairman
battling digital exclusion and discrimination; responding to communication needs created by the pandemic; embracing the circular economy; and contributing to the fight against climate change. Despite this period of great uncertainty, we have deliberately chosen to take the lead and prepare for the future: to integrate these market trends and take advantage of change. This has led us to radically change the way we look at our strengths, our capabilities and the way we implement them.
Proximus Group I Integrated annual report 2020
5
