Robin Abel holds a Ph. D. in Electronic Engineering and is a known specialist in the telecommunications industry with many years of experience, including sales positions at VMware and ADVA. Most recently, he worked as Regional Sales Manager for Calix, where he was responsible for the UK and Ireland business. At DKT, Robin will be in charge of building the company’s brand, presence and sales in the UK and Ireland. Robin Abel states: “Being in charge of DKT’s subsidiary is a great opportunity that I am glad to face. I am convinced, that with DKT’s out-of-the-box mindset, combined with sophisticated and innovative FTTH products, we will not only fulfil the needs of the British broadband market, but set new standards in increasing the intelligence of FTTH networks and their installation.”

DKT starts the intensification of the UK activities with the introduction of its First Meter® initiative at Connected Britain 2021 (21 – 22 September, London). First Meter® challenges why the customer connection is commonly called the “last mile” in the industry when it is the start of the subscriber experience with the service provider and should be seen as an opportunity to add value and increase customer satisfaction. One example of how First Meter® wants to achieve this is by allowing for Centralized Testing, which simplifies troubleshooting, and thereby reduces downtime, improves the broadband experience for the customer and lowers OPEX for the network operator. Furthermore, First Meter® features several solutions to simplify installation and connection of customers, thus allowing non-specialist installation and reducing risk due to the increased shortage of skilled FTTH installers. One such solution concept is Extallation, which enables even semiskilled workers to carry out a customer connection mainly from outside the building. Just like all of DKT’s other activities, First Meter® attaches great importance to interoperability and resilience.

Christian Emborg, CEO of DKT, has great confidence in the upcoming British activities: “I am convinced, that a local subsidiary will open enormous advantages on the British market. In addition to building stronger customer connections, this also includes improved support for network operators and rapid adaptation to local technical challenges and requirements. With Robin in charge, we have found a great addition to our team. I highly value his innovative mindset, technical expertise and over-the-top market knowledge.”