The UK’s competition watchdog, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), will investigate the proposed merger between Vodafone and Three. The CMA will assess whether the merger could harm consumers by reducing choice or increasing prices. If approved, the combined group would become the largest mobile network in the UK with approximately 27 million customers. Vodafone UK CEO Ahmed Essam believes that the merger will enhance competition by allowing for increased investment in infrastructure to better compete with larger players. Three UK CEO Robert Finnegan believes that the merger will accelerate the rollout of 5G and improve coverage. However, the Unite union estimates that bills could increase by £300 per year if the merger goes ahead. The CMA has asked for input from third parties to assess the potential impact on competition. The investigation is expected to be completed within 40 working days.
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