Vodafone Completes Merger with Three UK, Creates Largest Mobile Network

Vodafone UK and Three UK have completed their £15-16.5 billion merger, forming VodafoneThree, the UK's largest mobile network with around 27 million customers. Vodafone owns 51% of the new company, with CK Hutchison holding 49%. The merged entity plans to invest £11 billion over the next decade, including £1.3 billion in the first year, to accelerate 5G network rollout and improve coverage and quality. The deal, approved by the UK Competition and Markets Authority with conditions to protect consumers, aims to deliver £700 million in annual cost and capital expenditure synergies by the fifth year. VodafoneThree's leadership includes Max Taylor as CEO and Darren Purkis as CFO. Vodafone Group CEO Margherita Della Valle emphasized that the merger will transform UK digital infrastructure and position the company for future growth, while CK Hutchison highlighted the scale benefits and shareholder value unlocked by the transaction.