Jersey's Competition Regulator gives the go ahead to Sure buying Airtel Vodafone, subject to conditions.
The acquisition of Jersey based Airtel Vodafone by Guernsey registered Sure is a step closer, after approval in Jersey.
It initially blocked the deal on the grounds of a reduction in competition, from three mobile providers, to two.
The Co-Op is to step in as a third operator, meaning Sure will not have a dominant market position and consumers still have a three way choice.
It is lined up to enter as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator, using Sure’s network.
The other condition imposed by Jersey's regulator is that Vodafone's tariffs stay fixed for three years from the date of the final deal.
Tim Ringsdore, CEO of the Authority, says he's confident the agreement protects mobile users:
"Our objective is to promote and encourage fair competition in Jersey because it encourages businesses to improve and innovate to ‘win’ customers. For consumers, this can result in better quality products and services, more choice and fair prices.”
Attention now turns to Guernsey, where the States, not the Competition Regulator, will decide if the acquisition can proceed.
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