Vodafone and Three Merge to Create UK’s Largest Mobile Network
It’s official — Vodafone UK and Three UK have completed their long-anticipated merger, forming a new telecom powerhouse called VodafoneThree . This game-changing deal, finalized on 31 May 2025 , is already being hailed as the biggest shake-up in the UK telecoms market in over a decade. With Vodafone holding a 51% stake and CK Hutchison (Three’s parent company) holding 49%, this merger marks a bold step forward in redefining the landscape of mobile connectivity in the UK.
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Now operating under the name VodafoneThree, the company kicks off with an ambitious promise: a £1.3 billion investment in the first year alone , and a total £11 billion investment over the next 10 years . The goal? To build one of Europe’s most advanced and high-performing 5G networks. That means faster speeds, broader coverage, and more reliable service for over 27 million subscribers across the UK — the largest customer base among mobile operators in the country.
Max Taylor, previously CEO of Vodafone UK, now leads the combined business, while Darren Purkis of Three steps in as Chief Financial Officer. Together, they’re set to deliver not only a superior mobile experience but also £700 million in annual cost and capital synergies by the fifth year. Starting from FY29, Vodafone also expects this move to positively impact its free cash flow.
While the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) had initial concerns — especially around potential price hikes — the merger was given the green light under strict conditions. VodafoneThree must maintain certain mobile plans and data tariffs for at least three years , commit to extensive 5G rollout, and ensure protections are in place to guard customers from short-term price increases.
Interestingly, the Unite union had warned about possible job losses, estimating up to 1,600 roles might be affected. Vodafone, however, has pushed back against that claim, stating that the merger will ultimately create more jobs as network development scales up.
Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group CEO, called the merger “a new force in UK mobile” and emphasized that it “transforms the country’s digital infrastructure,” putting the UK at the forefront of European connectivity. And she’s not wrong — this isn’t just a merger; it’s a strategic repositioning. Along with recent divestments in Spain and Italy, Vodafone is clearly streamlining operations to focus on core growth markets like the UK.
In the end, this merger isn’t just about business numbers. It’s about enabling a smarter, faster, and more inclusive digital future for millions of people and businesses in the UK. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, working remotely, or running a business, the mobile experience in the UK is about to change — and change fast.
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