Vodafone and Virgin Media O2 sign new rural sharing arrangement

and Virgin Media O2 have entered a long-term network-sharing agreement to enhance rural connectivity 

The agreement builds on the existing collaboration between Vodafone UK and Virgin Media O2, including the Shared Rural Network initiative, to deliver quality mobile coverage in hard-to-reach areas across the UK.

“With this agreement and our merger with Three, we will transform the mobile experience for over 50 million customers in the UK, providing significant network improvements including more choice, better quality and greater coverage across the country. These benefits extend to both retail and wholesale MVNO customers,” said Ahmed Essam, CEO of European Markets at Vodafone.

 “The proposed merger, together with this agreement, will boost competition by establishing a strong third player in the UK mobile market and will improve the balance of spectrum holdings, levelling the playing field between the UK’s mobile operators.”

 Combined investments include  £11 billion for the merged network and Virgin Media O2’s £2 billion annual investment in networks and services

Elizabeth Anderson, CEO, Digital Poverty Alliance, commented: “One organisation can’t solve UK connectivity.The partnership between Vodafone and Virgin Media O2 is a welcome step to improve network reach. Connectivity in rural areas is a pressing issue for millions in the countryside and remote towns. There have been several impressive connectivity rollout schemes over the past few years. With this partnership, we’d hope to see that continue through further investment in VMO2’s Shared Rural Network programme.”