FTTH Forum: Discussing the Future of Fibre in Europe

Fibre rollout across Europe has made impressive progress in recent years. But as coverage increases, new challenges are emerging: How can we extend networks to harder-to-reach areas in a cost-effective way? What funding models make sense? And how is the market shifting as more players compete for customers and investment?

These questions will be at the centre of several panel discussions at the FTTH Forum, where industry leaders, regulators, and experts from across the sector will share insights and practical experiences. Key topics include:

Financing network growth and coverage

Tremendous growth has been achieved in FTTH deployments, with coverage reaching nearly 70% in Europe, according to the FTTH Council. How do we reach the rest of the population — affordably — to deliver the desired connectivity? How should such investments be funded and what are the limits to universal connectivity?

In this panel, experts will explore the ongoing challenge of extending networks to more remote areas, the challenge of competing (or coexisting) with FWA solutions, as well as initiatives to spread digital accessibility and the role of the regulator. What are the best ways to finance needed network growth and capacity while delivering returns?

Understanding M&A potential and activity

Europe has hundreds of independent fibre service providers — more than 100 in Italy and many more in Germany, for example — all competing for attention with national operators and former incumbents. Is the industry too top heavy? Does size place a break on the progress to date?

We will explore likely future scenarios and opportunities, as the fibre industry confronts growing competition, regionally, nationally and internationally. Is the sector ripe for increased M&A? Is consolidation the likely — and logical — outcome? Is it desirable or is the market self-sustaining with sufficient competition to ensure choice?

Optimising network planning and rollout

Network extensions and new rollouts must be planned efficiently to maximise coverage and to minimise costs — both initial investment and ongoing operational expenditure. With major urban zones largely saturated, managing new deployments has become increasingly challenging.

What new strategies and tactics should providers adopt to grow beyond initial deployments, or to target new opportunities? How do you manage costs effectively while meeting your strategic goals and delivering connectivity? Our panellists will consider how to optimise fibre network planning, delivery and operations.

Building differentiation for challenger providers

Launching a fibre proposition in a crowded market is tough. How do new entrants differentiate their offers to win market share? What are the key factors that can be used to add value to commoditised service packages? What levers do they have to press to win customer attention and to retain them?

New entrants have invested in efficient onboarding, new engagement models, traditional marketing, focused on customer service, and upselling complementary solutions. What tactics work? Can they be replicated? How do you engage, attract and retain customers in today’s landscape? We’ll explore best practice and consider lessons for the industry.