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The UK’s alternative network providers (altnets) are grappling with mounting financial pressures as collective losses surpassed £1.3 billion in 2023, according to research from Enders Analysis. The sector’s ambitious plans to reshape Britain’s broadband landscape have hit significant roadblocks, with many providers falling short of their initial targets whilst competing against established giants BT and Virgin Media O2.
The challenging economic environment, characterised by rising interest rates and escalating operational costs, has put severe strain on these challenger networks. Industry experts predict 2024 could bring even greater difficulties, with James Barford, director of telecoms at Enders Analysis, warning of “increasing interest costs” impact on financial performance.
Despite billions in investor backing, these alternative providers face an uphill battle in customer acquisition. The research suggests a minimum 40% take-up rate is necessary for reasonable returns, yet most altnets are projected to achieve less than 20% within five years of infrastructure deployment. Leading providers like Community Fibre and Hyperoptic demonstrate this challenge, with customer bases significantly lower than their network reach.
The sector’s struggles have prompted warnings from senior infrastructure investors, with one asset manager describing “a large chunk” of altnets as “uneconomic.” The possibility of widespread failures looms, with lenders potentially facing substantial losses. The anticipated consolidation wave might result in valuations well below initial capital investments.
Some optimism remains in the sector, bolstered by BT Openreach’s reported customer losses to competitors and the implementation of Ofcom’s “One Touch Switch” policy, designed to simplify provider changes. Recent successful debt raises have also provided some relief to the market.
The industry’s focus is shifting from rapid infrastructure expansion to achieving profitability and self-sustainability. Max Gilbert from Houlihan Lokey suggests that while near-term investor sentiment may remain cautious, a significant number of altnets could reach EBITDA break-even within the next year, marking a potential turning point for the sector’s financial health.
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