Alternative network operator AllPoints Fibre Networks, which is the UK wholesale division of Fern Trading’s recently consolidate alternative FTTP broadband ISP networks (Giganet, Jurassic Fibre, and Swish Fibre), has today announced that they’ve acquired Glasgow-based full fibre ISP Brillband for an undisclosed sum.
In case anybody has forgotten, Brillband was only founded in 2022 and tended to focus their CityFibre based broadband services toward customers in Scotland. The ISP also once quirkily described itself as the “world’s first … app-based broadband provider“ (here) and has, to date, attracted over £800,000 of investment. But what isn’t known is how many customers they were able to connect.
By comparison, APFN has tended to adopt a more vertically integrated approach and have been selling broadband packages to consumers via retail ISP Cuckoo, which harnesses both their own full fibre networks and those of several rivals (e.g. CityFibre and Openreach).
Under the new deal, Brillband will continue to operate as a standalone entity and brand within the APFN Group, and its team will remain in place. Work will begin immediately so Brillband can serve customers across the country via APFN’s open access wholesale platform.
Jarlath Finnegan, CEO of APFN, said:
“Today is an exciting step in APFN’s journey. As the full fibre market evolves, we’re always looking out for compelling opportunities to invest in or acquire other firms. In a short time, Brillband has built a loyal customer base and a strong brand via savvy technical investment and a commitment to automation. I’m looking forward to working with Duncan and the team to take the business to the next level.”
Duncan Di Biase, Brillband Founder and CEO, said:
“This is a landmark moment for Brillband. We have the energy and the passion to transform how people feel about their broadband, and now we have the backing of a major player in the full fibre industry. We can’t wait to start working with Jarlath as we continue on our journey.”
ISPreview understands that Duncan Di Biase, Brillband’s Founder and CEO, will remain in place; while Jarlath Finnegan, Group CEO of APFN and Cuckoo Fibre, will become Brillband Chairman in addition to his current role.