en.Wedoany.com Reported - Alternative network operator Airband has launched a formal sale process following a strategic review, seeking a "suitable long-term owner."
This week, documents have been sent to potential buyers. It has also been revealed that the company may face debt restructuring. A spokesperson stated in a statement that throughout the process, Airband will continue to operate and trade normally, with the network remaining fully operational and no impact on customer service or daily operations.
Airband's full-fibre network currently covers approximately 175,000 premises, with an additional 265,000 premises covered by fixed wireless access (FWA). Of the total coverage of around 440,000 premises, the number of customers is only about 30,000, far below the level needed for the company to recoup its expensive network deployment costs in the short term.
For several years, Airband has struggled to improve its situation. The first round of restructuring and layoffs occurred in 2024, and earlier this year the company announced further changes and redundancies, stating it is shifting its focus to a mature operational transition, prioritizing long-term sustainability, customer experience, and efficient delivery.
Financial data shows that Airband's operating loss increased to £47.23 million this year, with total liabilities exceeding £224 million and total assets reportedly standing at £179.81 million.
Who will acquire Airband remains unclear. The UK's largest alternative network operator, CityFibre, has long harbored ambitions to become a key consolidator in the UK fibre network, with approximately £800 million of its £2.3 billion in new funding specifically earmarked for mergers and acquisitions. However, the company has recently faced its own financial challenges, primarily related to its restructured £3.7 billion debt. Virgin Media O2 and its sister company nexfibre, while another apparent option, are already busy acquiring Netomnia for £2 billion. As alternative network operators across the country seek deals, finding a suitable partner could be a lengthy process.
