By Ben Thomas
The rapid digitalization of Europe and the UK has driven an unprecedented fiber rollout in recent years. However, the pace of this expansion has slowed, marking the end of an aggressive land-grab phase. As we enter 2025, the UK fiber market is shifting from rapid deployment to a more sustainable growth model, focusing strongly on return on investment (ROI) and operational efficiency. This transition is reshaping the landscape for alternative network providers (Altnets), leading to increased industry consolidation and a fundamental change in key performance metrics.
From homes passed to customers connected
For years, the fiber market prioritized rapid expansion, with “homes passed” as the key metric. This expansion was largely financed by private investors. However, while many Altnets successfully built extensive fiber networks, profitability remains a challenge. Investors are now shifting their focus from expansion to financial viability, urging operators to transition from merely passing homes to actively connecting customers.
This new reality emphasizes the take-up rate—the proportion of homes that subscribe to fiber services after infrastructure deployment. Those unable to meet investor expectations are facing financial difficulties, leading to an ongoing wave of consolidation within the industry. However, mergers and acquisitions do not always yield the anticipated profits, further highlighting the need for a strategic operational shift.
The new imperative: efficient network operations
Building fiber networks is no longer the sole objective—operating and maintaining them efficiently is now paramount. Many Altnets are discovering that their existing network documentation lacks the necessary quality and functionality to support seamless operations, hindering service delivery, uptime, and customer experience.
As UK Altnets navigate this transformation, they can gain valuable insights from Sweden’s fiber market, which has long prioritized efficient network management alongside deployment. With over 20 years of experience, Digpro supports fiber operators with digital tools designed to manage the full lifecycle of fiber networks.
Three key drivers are accelerating this transformation:
- Enhanced data quality throughout the lifecycle
Accurate data is essential for an efficient fiber business. Yet, documentation is often treated as an afterthought, completed at the end of a job. With dpCom, documentation starts from the initial high-level plan and is continuously refined throughout detailed design, construction, operations, and maintenance.
Key benefits:- More efficient daily management – Easily update network configurations and connect customers seamlessly.
- Faster troubleshooting – A robust data model provides deeper insights for quicker issue resolution.
- Increased network value – Knowing exactly what components make up the network enhances its overall worth.
- A flexible process engine
Business process support should adapt to your network and company’s growth, not be constrained by rigid, hard-coded workflows. dpCom allows operators to design and customize processes to match their evolving needs at every phase. It also lets you automate repetitive tasks, saving time and money. - IT stack simplification
Managing a fiber network requires a streamlined IT ecosystem. Reducing complexity leads to:- Smoother operations
- Minimized technical inefficiencies
- Improved data quality
By embracing these key drivers, UK Altnets can future-proof their operations, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and long-term success.
The UK fiber market is evolving, and those who adapt to the new reality—shifting focus from expansion to operational excellence—will thrive in this next phase of digital connectivity.
Meet the expert
Passionate about driving innovation in the fiber industry, Ben Thomas has extensive experience in telecom, with a strong focus on fiber networks. Ben’s expertise spans network deployment, operations, and strategic growth, making him a key advocate for smarter, more efficient fiber management.
Streamline your operations with dpCom and contact us.
