VodafoneThree has announced significant advancements in its mission to enhance mobile connectivity across the United Kingdom. The company reports the successful elimination of 16,500 km² of “not spots,” which are areas previously lacking adequate mobile coverage. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to achieve 99% 5G Standalone population coverage by 2030, with a further target of 99.96% by 2034. To support this ambitious goal, VodafoneThree has pledged £11 billion towards infrastructure improvements.
Economic Impact of Enhanced Connectivity
The company attributes its progress to the deployment of ‘Multi Operator Core Network’ (MOCN) technology across over 8,000 sites nationwide. This technology ensures that all Vodafone and Three customers have access to the best available mobile coverage at no additional cost. Alongside this announcement, VodafoneThree released new research highlighting the potential economic benefits of improved mobile connectivity.
The study asserts that enhancing mobile infrastructure could contribute an estimated £6.6 billion annually to the UK economy over the next decade. The research involved surveying 2,000 participants, including both current and aspiring business owners. Findings revealed that inadequate mobile signals pose a significant barrier for small businesses, with nearly 62% of potential entrepreneurs indicating that unreliable connectivity has deterred them from starting enterprises in their local areas.
Additionally, the survey found that 33% of respondents believed a stronger signal would make their regions more appealing for business ventures, while 26% expressed that improved connectivity would directly influence their decision to establish a company locally.
Statements from Company Leaders
Nick Gliddon, Business Director at VodafoneThree, stated, “When connectivity improves, entrepreneurship follows. Founders move fast, and the infrastructure around them needs to keep up. Strong and reliable connectivity helps start-ups win customers, build reputation, and grow steadily. We’re focused on building the network that UK enterprise can count on.”
Telecoms Minister Liz Lloyd echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of high-quality mobile connectivity for business growth. “Access to high quality, reliable mobile connectivity is essential for businesses and driving growth. The investment VodafoneThree has committed as a result of their merger, along with their efforts to remove not spots, will help boost coverage across the UK and support our ambition for all populated areas to have access to higher quality standalone 5G by 2030.”
As VodafoneThree continues to work towards its connectivity goals, the potential for new business creation and economic enhancement remains substantial, underscoring the critical role of mobile technology in the modern landscape.
