UK Mobile Phone Operators Vodafone And Three Join Hands To Leverage 5G Deployment

Two major mobile phone operators in the UK reached an agreement on Wednesday to combine their businesses in order to take advantage of the implementation of advanced 5G wireless technology in the country. 

By merging Vodafone UK and Three, which is owned by CK Hutchison of Hong Kong, the resulting company will become the largest mobile phone provider in Britain, with a market value estimated at around GBP 15 billion (approximately USD 18.75 billion). 

Vodafone will hold a 51 per cent stake in the merged entity, while CK Hutchison will retain the remaining portion. 

The merging companies stated that this consolidation will enhance their competitiveness in the realm of 5G technology. Margherita Della Valle, CEO of Vodafone, referred to the deal as a “game-changer” for their presence in the domestic market. 

She further emphasised that the merger would have a transformative effect by facilitating the establishment of a high-quality, potentially the most outstanding 5G network in Europe, that would provide customers with an exceptional experience. 

The companies are targeting the completion of the merger by the conclusion of 2024.