The Czech unit of O2 is creating a new entity to handle its mobile and fixed infrastructure.
The operator has not revealed whether it plans to divest its services or networks units, or what its exact motivations are for spinning off its infrastructure business. However, the move may have been calculated as a means of avoiding certain regulatory measures.
Spinning off the network is an unusual step, but the decision was made following a feasibility study. The operator has confirmed that the new unit would be able to provide wholesale services to rival operators.
In addition, the firm has made some new appointments. Tomas Budnik has replaced Luis Malvido – who left the company at the end of 2014 as a result of the PPF takeover – as chairman, while Tomas Kouril is now vice-chairman.
O2 Czech Republic’s 5 million subscribers make it the country’s second biggest operator, following market leader T-Mobile. It is controlled by financial group PPF, which acquired a 66% stake in the business in January 2014. This stake was increased to 73% in July.
