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Network operator CityFibre has today announced that their high-speed fibre optic based Ethernet (leased line) services are now available to over 260,000 UK businesses (up from 80,000). The expansion has been underpinned by its nationwide upgrade to 10Gbps capable XGS-PON (FTTP) broadband technology.
Just to recap. CityFibre’s existing full fibre network covers 4.3 million UK premises (RFS). But this rollout also incorporates a dedicated Business Ethernet platform, designed specifically to support enterprise-grade service guarantees and bringing their full FTTP network online for its business ISPs.
The operator added that, over the past year, they’ve worked closely with partners to speed-up the installation of new business Ethernet connections by up to 40% (across their most complex Ethernet installations, where ‘permission to work’ has been agreed). CityFibre added that they’re also introducing a new “delivery assurance guarantee” to provide partners with the confidence of enhanced compensation for any unexpected delays to their installation date.
CityFibre added that they were also “committed to delivering the best economics“, with claims that its Ethernet prices are “up to 20% cheaper” than its “major competitors“. All of this sounds good, although their current top Ethernet tier still only offers symmetric speeds of 1Gbps, which at this end of the market is starting to look a little dated.
Andy Nash, Director of Business, Government and Mobile at CityFibre, said:
“Today’s announcement is a reminder that CityFibre is more than just a broadband network. We’re building a digital infrastructure platform that serves the needs of all sectors of the market, from consumer services right through to enterprise-level connectivity.
Our partners have called for a larger footprint and that is exactly what we are giving them. Tripling our business footprint transforms their addressable market and is a catalyst for growth and shared success. We look forward to our proposition of market leading products, service and economics benefitting even more businesses in the years ahead.”
CityFibre currently still aspires to cover up to 8 million UK premises with their new FTTP (XGS-PON) broadband network – representing c.30% of the UK. But their original target of hitting that by the end of 2025 will not be achieved, and the operator has instead shifted their strategy to focus more on growth via mergers and acquisition (M&A) of smaller alternative networks.