Enhanced mobile connectivity, as highlighted by new research from VodafoneThree, promises a transformative boost to the UK’s economy. Over the span of a decade, improved mobile signals could generate £6.6 billion annually by fostering the inception of 49,000 new businesses. The study underscores connectivity’s crucial role in entrepreneurship.
The rollout by VodafoneThree has already seen 16,500 km² of “not spots” addressed, using Multi Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology across 8,000 sites. This strategic move ensures users connect to optimal coverage without additional costs, marking significant progress in achieving 99% 5G Standalone coverage by 2030.
Poor connectivity remains a hurdle for entrepreneurs across the UK, as revealed by feedback from potential business owners. A staggering 62% report connectivity issues as barriers to establishing businesses, while 33% believe better signals would enhance local business appeal. The initiative aims to counteract these challenges, especially for those looking to start businesses in less connected areas.
The investment of £11 billion by VodafoneThree is not just about infrastructure but about catalyzing economic opportunities. According to Nick Gliddon, Business Director at VodafoneThree, “When connectivity improves, entrepreneurship follows.” This improved connectivity directly aligns with supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with programs like business.connected helping businesses deal with unique challenges and providing necessary digital skills.
Indeed, the potential for regional economic growth is considerable. The North-West and South-East UK, for instance, stand to see thousands of new businesses, boosting their local economies by hundreds of millions. The efforts are also spreading to rural areas, historically underserved by telecom advances.
Despite these strides, the reality remains that connectivity issues persist even within urban centers like London. Here, improved connectivity could lead to substantial entrepreneurial growth, presenting an opportunity to add over £1.9 billion to the economy. A notable point is highlighted by Tina McKenzie of the Federation of Small Businesses, stressing the need for connectivity in bolstering business efficiencies.
The strategy by VodafoneThree is rooted in a broader agenda of empowering businesses through reliable mobile service. As such, the collaboration between government and mobile operators is essential in expanding 5G coverage, ensuring that burgeoning businesses have the support they need to flourish. This next phase in mobile connectivity development can potentially redefine business landscapes, further bridging the digital divide.
