Vodafone-Three Merger: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the proposed Vodafone UK and Three UK merger, including what it means for existing customers.
Vodafone-Three Merger: Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers the most commonly asked questions about the proposed merger between Vodafone UK and Three UK. This site is independent and not affiliated with either company.
For Existing Customers
I'm a Three customer. What happens to my contract?
Your existing contract remains valid. A merger does not change the terms of your existing agreement. You will continue to be billed at your current rate until your contract ends or you choose to change.
I'm a Vodafone customer. Do I need to do anything?
No. Your contract is unchanged. You don't need to take any action. Any changes to plans, pricing, or services would be communicated by the company directly.
Will my phone number change?
No. Your phone number is tied to your account and will not change as a result of the merger.
Will I be moved to a different network without my consent?
No. Networks cannot change the material terms of your contract without giving you appropriate notice and, in many cases, the right to exit without penalty.
Will prices go up?
This is the central concern raised by consumer groups. The merged company has made commitments to the CMA regarding pricing, but the long-term effects are uncertain. The best protection for any consumer is to compare deals regularly and switch when better value is available elsewhere. See our consumer impact analysis for more detail.
About the Merger
Why are Vodafone and Three merging?
The stated rationale is to create a stronger, better-funded company capable of accelerating 5G investment. Both companies argue that the UK mobile market requires larger operators to fund the infrastructure investment needed to compete internationally.
When will the merger complete?
The exact timetable for completing the integration of the two businesses is subject to change. Regulatory clearance has been obtained subject to conditions. The practical process of combining the businesses takes several years.
Who regulates this merger?
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is the primary regulator for UK merger control. Ofcom also has a role in spectrum management and may have input on related regulatory matters.
Has the CMA approved the merger?
Yes, the CMA approved the transaction subject to conditions (remedies). The conditions include commitments on network investment, wholesale access pricing, and certain pricing protections. We recommend checking the CMA's official case page for authoritative, up-to-date information.
What remedies did the CMA impose?
The remedies include commitments relating to:
- Wholesale network access pricing for MVNOs
- 5G network investment targets
- Oversight and enforcement mechanisms
The exact detail of the remedies is contained in formal CMA documentation, which we recommend consulting directly.
About the Networks and Brands
What will the merged company be called?
Brand decisions for the merged entity have not been fully announced at the time of writing. It's common in mergers for one or both brand names to continue during a transition period before any rebranding.
What happens to VOXI?
VOXI is Vodafone's own MVNO brand. Its future positioning as part of the merged entity is a commercial decision to be made by the combined company. We will report on any announcements.
What happens to SMARTY?
SMARTY is Three UK's own low-cost MVNO brand. Its future is similarly a commercial decision for the merged company.
Will iD Mobile be affected?
iD Mobile (operated by Currys) runs on Three's network. Its future relationship with the merged entity will depend on the outcome of wholesale negotiations and any applicable regulatory protections.
Staying Informed
Where can I find official information?
- The CMA's case page at gov.uk for official regulatory documents
- Vodafone's and Three's own investor relations pages for formal company announcements
- Ofcom's website for spectrum and regulatory matters
How can I protect myself as a consumer?
The best protection is to be an active consumer:
- Compare deals at every contract renewal using tools like ours.
- Know your right to a PAC code — switching networks is easy.
- Monitor pricing over time and switch if value deteriorates.
- Support consumer groups that advocate for competition in telecoms.
See our compare tool and deals pages to stay on top of the current market.