Sure to acquire Airtel-Vodafone and invest £50m in 5G network

Picture: ROB CURRIE

ALMOST £50 million will be invested in a new 5G mobile network as part of a deal which will see Sure acquire Airtel-Vodafone in the Channel Islands.

The merger is subject to regulatory approval but Sure has announced it has reached an agreement with Bharti Global Limited for the acquisition of one of its rival telecoms companies.

This will result in £48 million being invested into a new mobile network for Jersey and Guernsey, which will include the latest 5G services.

Alistair Beak, chief executive of Sure, said: ‘This merger will result in significant investment being made in the Channel Islands’ digital infrastructure at a time when demand for connectivity has never been greater.’

He added: ‘Putting customers first, it will create a brand-new, future-proofed mobile network which will improve coverage, value and reliability and provide gigabit speeds to support enhanced connectivity.

‘The combination of Sure and Airtel-Vodafone will mean that as a larger business we can compete more effectively, which will ultimately be great news for customers in terms of value and service.’

As part of the merger, Airtel-Vodafone customers will be able to benefit from a number of Sure’s services, while Sure will continue to offer Airtel-Vodafone’s basic plan, which is currently the lowest priced available.

Airtel-Vodafone staff will also be integrated into the new merged business.

Mr Beak said: ‘We are prepared to make a number of promises to ensure Jersey customers get the best combined value of Sure and Airtel-Vodafone as well as promising to improve the quality of network service and reliability.’

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