AS the merger between LIME and Columbus Communication Jamaica Ltd looms, the Flow cable operator has vowed it will continue to “outclass” its competitors in customer service, according to a news release yesterday.

“The significance of the merger for Jamaican and regional businesses and consumers alike is that, for the first time, they will be able to enjoy truly integrated services — mobile, landline, cable, internet and managed business solutions,” said acting managing director of Columbus Communication Grant Hume.

“This will be achieved by leveraging CWC’s extensive cellular and fixed connectivity footprint along with Columbus’ regional full fibre network and deep IT solutions capability,” Hume said.

A 2014 survey commissioned by the Office of Utilities Regulation ranked the two telecommunications companies first and second for quality of service to customers, the release said.

“Consumers were more likely to report experiencing deterioration in the service they receive from most service providers over the last 12 months than improvements; LIME and Flow were the exceptions”, the report said.

The survey said 37 per cent of respondents said Jamaica Public Service services had deteriorated, 20 per cent said the same for Digicel, while 15 per cent said National Water Commission services had waned. Only three per cent of respondents said the same for Flow, according to the news release.

Flow tied with LIME on customer care, beating the other companies at 3.9 out of a possible 5. The company was also rated third in product quality and billing.

The study used qualitative and quantitative methodology to derive its findings.