Simon D.’s Post

The proposed Vodafone-Three UK merger strongly merits approval. In this brief paper submitted to the CMA, and now published on the CMA website, I set out the reasons why. To summarise: economic growth requires innovation and productivity gains, and in a telecoms context this boils down to lower prices per GB. In turn, lower prices per GB are driven by network investment – and the merger provides a way to improve the viability of this network investment, paid for out of operating efficiency gains. It should therefore be embraced.

As parts of the #telecoms industry wait with bated breath for the long-awaited outcome of the proposed merger between Vodafone and Three, Paul McCullagh has penned an opinion piece for The Institute of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP). In his article, Paul explores the potential implications of this landmark merger and how it might shape the telecoms landscape for businesses and consumers, as well as the industry as a whole 🌐 Read more here 👇

🇬🇧 The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published ten responses to an issues statement that was released in May, one of which was a 40 page report from BT Group saying that "that the merger would result in “higher prices, poorer network quality, and reduced incentives to invest – all to the detriment of UK consumers.” Get the details 👇

10 of the biggest telecoms M&A deals in 2024 Great round up of the year's biggest deals so far! Zayo US decision to separate its European operations is particularly intriguing. It could signal a growing trend where companies find regional management more effective than a global approach. Lumen's and GTT's recent divestiture of international infrastructure is a clear sign companies are finding it more difficult to manage across multiple regions. It'll be fascinating to see how this strategy plays out for Zayo in Europe. #m&a #mergersandacquisitions #telecoms #networks https://lnkd.in/eJYRWFsM

Great article Paul McCullagh, especially the insight on Local Authorities. It's something I've spoken a lot about recently - many Local Authorities are screaming out for connectivity to support use cases and initiatives that will bridge the digital divide, connect the remote and and help the vulnerable. Local Authorities need Digital Champions to break down the walls between end users like Social Care and enablers such as Planning, Estates and Highways but, as ever, the challenge is funding. There's a role in this for everyone involved in deployment. The merger (if approved) needs to be followed up with Local Authority engagement, similar to the old Network Roll Out sessions with full engagement from all stakeholders. An eight year plan can soon be scuppered if the first steps don't bring everyone on the journey!

BT’s opposition to Vodafone-Three merger: A crucial moment for the future of UK 5G The proposed Vodafone-Three merger, involving two of the UK's smallest mobile operators, faces strong opposition from BT, the largest operator, which filed a 27-page objection with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). BT argues the merger would harm consumers by raising prices and reducing competition, calling for the deal to be blocked and rejecting alternative remedies like divestments or behavioral conditions. Vodafone and Three argue the merger is essential to fund £11 billion in 5G improvements, but BT contends this investment commitment is misleading and unenforceable, as monitoring capital expenditures won’t ensure real consumer benefits. The CMA, wary of approving the deal without conditions after blocking a previous merger attempt by Three, also sees structural and behavioral remedies as impractical. This impasse is crucial for 5G development—Vodafone and Three claim the merger is needed to compete and expand 5G, while BT fears it will undermine competition. The decision will shape the UK’s 5G market, determining whether consolidation or separate networks drive future investments. #TelecomNews #5GInnovation #VodafoneThreeMerger #CompetitionMatters #UKTelecom #TechPolicy #FutureOf5G Link: https://lnkd.in/gaTfdfxy  

The UK telecoms scene is changing with the Vodafone and Three merger. Approved last week, this deal could transform 5G infrastructure. Check out the article for all the details.

The recent approval of the $19 billion merger between Vodafone and Three UK marks a transformative moment for the UK's telecom industry. This consolidation, creating the largest mobile network operator in the country, raises both hopes and concerns. On one hand, the promised £11 billion investment in 5G infrastructure aims to boost connectivity in urban and rural areas alike, potentially ushering in a new era of technological advancement. However, as the number of major players dwindles from four to three, worries about reduced competition and pricing power loom large. While the CMA's consumer protection conditions are designed to mitigate risks—like tariff caps and support for smaller operators—it’s crucial that these measures are enforced effectively. The success of this merger will ultimately depend on balancing innovation with competition, ensuring that the benefits extend to consumers without sacrificing choice or affordability. The next few years will be critical; let’s keep a close eye on the unfolding developments!

CMA's provisional approval of the Vodafone-Three merger promises a boost to 5G infrastructure, reaching more consumers with faster connectivity more competitive rates, faster rollouts, and a large-scale commitment to enhanced network access for millions. Central to the approval is a multi-billion-pound commitment to upgrade the merged company’s network infrastructure across the UK, including an ambitious 5G rollout programme. This investment, combined with short-term customer safeguards, has been deemed sufficient to address previous competition concerns. Strategic partnerships like these can have an incredible impact, provided they also protect customer choice and market health. #telecom #5g #partnership

Now that the dust has settled on the hot topic of the approved merger between Vodafone and Three it is clear to see that this marks a significant shift in the UK Telecommunications landscape now taken the 4 big hitters to 3. What this will mean for Landlords with Telecommunications equipment on their land is largely unknown at this time. However it is vital to consider what the outcome could be and how to minimise the risk. I think one topic which can not be snubbed for landlords at this current time is NETWORK CONSOLIDATION. The likelihood is there will be a rationalisation of both networks infrastructure seeking to potentially reduce the need for many sites throughout the UK and to consolidate throughout to save expense. This could result in the early termination for a large number of landlords due to the site now no longer being necessary. Now might be the perfect time to review your lease terms with a telecoms expert to ensure you're well-positioned as the merger progresses. Please feel free to reach out to me as I will be happy to support you and your telecommunications site. At Telecom Infrastructure Partners we Minismise Risk and Maximise Return. Drop me a message here or by email to see what return you can get on your Telecommunication equipment. E: [email protected]