According to reports, the proposed deal would allow VodafoneThree to offer broadband services using Virgin Media O2’s network infrastructure. If agreed, it would mark the first major wholesale arrangement between the two operators and represent a significant shift in how Virgin Media O2 commercialises its fixed network assets.
For VodafoneThree, the agreement could provide an opportunity to expand its presence in the UK broadband market following the merger of Vodafone UK and Three UK. While the combined operator has a large mobile customer base, its fixed-line footprint remains relatively limited, relying heavily on wholesale access to other providers’ infrastructure.
Access to Virgin Media O2’s network would therefore give VodafoneThree another route to scale its broadband offering without building its own nationwide fibre network.
For Virgin Media O2, opening its infrastructure to a rival operator would signal a growing focus on wholesale revenue. Historically, the company has largely operated a vertically integrated model, delivering broadband services directly to consumers through its own retail brand.
However, the UK broadband market is evolving rapidly as operators seek ways to improve returns on heavy fibre investment. Allowing wholesale access to its network could help Virgin Media O2 increase utilisation of its infrastructure while creating a stronger competitor to BT’s Openreach network.
Virgin Media O2 itself has been expanding its footprint through investment and partnerships, including its fibre joint venture nexfibre, which is rolling out full-fibre infrastructure across the UK.
In parallel, operators are increasingly exploring wholesale and infrastructure-sharing models to support the economics of fibre deployment. These arrangements allow companies to reach more customers without duplicating networks, while infrastructure owners can generate additional revenue streams from wholesale access.
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