Telecoms

Vodafone and Three UK to merge to country’s create biggest mobile network

Vodafone will own 51 per cent of the new company and Hong Kong-based conglomerate CK Hutchison will control the remainder

The takeover will combine the two smallest of the UK’s four mobile operators, creating a new dominant carrier by market share. Picture: Getty

Vodafone Group Plc and Three-owners CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. agreed to combine their UK mobile businesses in a deal that will create the biggest wireless company in the country if it passes muster with regulators.

Vodafone will own 51 per cent of the new company and Hong Kong-based conglomerate CK Hutchison will control the remainder, the companies said in a statement on Wednesday. The companies expect to close the deal before the end of 2024.