Pierre Karl Peladeau’s jump to PQ spurs calls for Videotron boycott

MONTREAL – It seems Pierre Karl Peladeau’s jump into politics is sparking an unexpected backlash against one of his companies.

The target of the consumer wrath is Videotron, a unit of Quebecor Media Inc. (TSX:QBR.B) that provides cable TV, Internet and wireless services.

Many people have taken to social media to grouse about Peladeau’s commitment to creating a sovereign Quebec and to say they can no longer support Videotron.

Others have gone further and say they’ve cancelled their contracts altogether after Peladeau announced Sunday he would run for the Parti Quebecois and that he is a committed sovereigntist.

At the same time he resigned from a number of companies where he held senior positions, including Quebecor Media and Hydro-Quebec.

Peladeau brushed off the online grumbling today, saying Videotron is a good company with a proven track record.

But some clients have posted directly to Videotron’s Facebook page to say they’re dumping the service while others counter that they are satisfied and are criticizing those who are leaving.

The company even put out a statement on Facebook and Twitter in both English and French on Sunday, explaining that Peladeau was no longer with the company.

“Mr. Peladeau submitted his resignation to the corporate boards on which he sits,” the company wrote. “He will no longer take part in any decisions respecting the corporation’s daily or strategic management.

“Through Videotron, Quebecor will continue delivering the best possible customer experience.”