Driven by a vision, Edward S. Rogers Sr. laid the foundation of what we know today as Rogers Communications. It began in 1914 with the Rogers Vacuum Tube Company.
Rogers Communications has deep roots in Toronto. The Rogers Building stands as a testament to its enduring presence. The company’s headquarters are at 333 Bloor Street East.
Let’s dive into the story of Rogers. In 1925, Edward S. Rogers Sr. made a groundbreaking invention. He created the alternating current heater filament cathode for radio tubes. This allowed radios to be powered by household electricity. This innovation was key to making radio reception popular. He also established CFRB radio in Toronto.
Tragedy struck in 1939. Edward S. Rogers Sr. died at the young age of 38. His son, Ted Rogers Jr., was determined to continue his father’s legacy.
In 1960, Ted Rogers Jr. partnered with Joel Aldred. They formed Aldred-Rogers Broadcasting. Their first acquisition was CHFI, an FM radio station in Toronto. Aldred-Rogers Broadcasting also became part-owner of Baton Aldred Rogers Broadcasting. This group established CFTO-TV which was Toronto’s first private television station. Rogers then established CHFI, an AM radio station in 1962. It later became CFTR.
Rogers established Rogers Cable TV in 1967. This was in partnership with BARB. New regulations in 1971 forced BARB to sell its stake in Rogers Cable TV.
Rogers acquired Canadian Cablesystems in 1979. As a result, it became listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. In 1980, Rogers acquired Premier Cablevision. This made it the largest cable company in Canada. Rogers Cable was renamed Rogers Communications in 1986. It also gained control over Cantel. Cantel was a wireless telephone company.
Rogers unveiled a new logo in 2000. This marked a significant departure from its original branding. Rogers acquired Cable Atlantic in 2000.
Rogers Media acquired CTV Sportsnet in July 2001. It was renamed Rogers Sportsnet that November. The FAN 590 sports radio station joined Rogers Media in August 2001.
In 2004, Rogers increased its stake in the wireless market. Rogers acquired the 34% of Rogers Wireless owned by AT&T Wireless Services Inc.
Ted Rogers died of heart failure in December 2008.
Rogers launched Ignite TV in August 2018. This was a new cable television platform. The platform is licensed from Comcast’s “X1” platform.
Rogers announced its intent to acquire Shaw Communications in March 2021. The acquisition was approved in 2023.
Rogers Communications has become a telecommunications giant. It offers wireless communications, cable television, and Internet services. Rogers also has significant media assets including the Toronto Blue Jays.
In April 2024, Rogers announced a 10-year agreement with Comcast. This expanded upon its Ignite TV partnership. The agreement gives Rogers access to Comcast-developed broadband and smart home technology. Rogers continues to evolve. It adapts to the changing needs of Canadians.