TDS Telecommunications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange, has entered into a purchase agreement with Granite State Communications to transfer ownership of the independent phone company’s fiber optic and voice operations. The acquisition is expected to close within the third quarter of 2026. As a result of the acquisition, TDS Telecom, which is based in Wisconsin, will gain more than 11,000 fiber service addresses.
“This acquisition marks an exciting step forward in our mission to deliver world-class connectivity with an excellent customer experience. By welcoming Granite State Communications into the TDS family, we are not only expanding our fiber network but also strengthening our commitment to the New Hampshire communities we serve,” says Drew Petersen, TDS Telecom senior vice president of corporate affairs.
Granite State Communications was founded in 1877 and once consisted of four separate telephone companies: Chester Telephone Company, Sandown Telephone Company, Weare Telephone Company, and Triangle Telephone Company.
“For nearly nine decades, Granite State Communications has been an important and enduring part of our family’s journey,” says Susan Rand King, president of Granite State Communications. “It was built over three generations of leadership and a steadfast commitment to innovation and customer-focused service.”
Christian Rand, vice president and chief strategy officer adds, “After thoughtful consideration, we are confident that TDS Telecom is the right partner for this next chapter. Their deep commitment to the New Hampshire market and proven track record gives us great confidence they will continue delivering the high-quality service our customers expect and deserve.”
TDS Telecom has been doing business in NH since 1970 and owns five telephone companies, four of which have been operating as TDS Telecom since 2004. TDS porvides high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to small to mid-sized urban, suburban and rural communities throughout the U.S. with 1.1 million connections.