BT and Openreach have secured a £9.8 million contract to deliver high speed broadband to over 1,700 underserved sites in Southwest Wales. This major infrastructure project aims to bridge the digital divide, boost connectivity in remote areas, and support economic and social development.
BT has launched a new international unit as part of its strategic overhaul, aiming to streamline operations and sharpen focus on the UK market. Led by Bas Burger, the division will operate independently and enhance financial transparency, supporting BT’s broader cost saving goals.
BT has appointed Peter Leukert as Chief Digital Officer, effective September 1. Currently CIO at Deutsche Telekom, Leukert will lead BT’s Digital unit, driving transformation and innovation. He brings extensive global experience and will join BT’s Executive Committee, reporting to CEO Allison Kirkby.
BT has secured a five-year partnership with DEFRA to connect 34,000 workers and devices across the UK. Using EE’s mobile network and the Shared Rural Network, the project enhances safety, monitors the environment, and supports carbon reduction, helping DEFRA predict weather events and prevent critical incidents in rural areas.
BT has sold its remaining stake in its Italian unit to Retelit, propelling Retelit’s expansion and enhancing ICT infrastructure services. This strategic move marks a pivotal step for BT, while streamlining its operations and focusing on the UK market.
Cordiant Digital Infrastructure is on the brink of acquiring BT Ireland’s wholesale unit for €22 million. This strategic move, approved by Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, is set to enhance Cordiant’s influence within the Irish market.
The Indian government’s strategic move to convert Vodafone Idea’s debt into equity has dramatically increased its stake to 49%. This comes as a lifeline for the telco, offering significant relief in its enormous debt woes. Despite this, Vodafone Idea faces tough competition from leaders Jio and Airtel, particularly in the 5G arena.
Telus, a leading telecom operator, is considering selling a minority stake in its wireless tower portfolio, aiming to strengthen its financial position. The potential divestment of up to 49.9% of its 3,000 towers could raise over CAD 1 billion, fueling debt reduction and aligning with broader industry trends of leveraging asset sales for growth.
BT is in talks with AT&T and Orange to explore partnerships for its international operations, possibly leading to a partial sale. This move aligns with CEO Allison Kirkby’s UK-focused strategy, following BT’s recent sale of its Irish operations.
BT urges UK SMEs to switch from analogue to digital networks by 2025 amid the phased retirement of PSTN, essential yet outdated. With 22% still reliant on traditional systems, disruptions rise.
