Virgin Media O2 and Vodafone sign 10-year etwork-sharing agreement

Virgin Media O2 and Vodafone have signed a new network-sharing deal in the UK which also includes plans for Virgin Media O2 to acquire spectrum from Vodafone, which could help the latter gain regulatory approval for its merger with Three.

"We are extending and bolstering elements of our existing network-sharing arrangement, while also ensuring there is a robust, balanced, and functional structure in place for the long-term should Vodafone and Three’s proposed merger gain consent," said Lutz Schüler, CEO of Virgin Media O2.

“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, leveling the playing field between the UK’s mobile operators," added Ahmed Essam, CEO, European Markets, Vodafone.