The idea of selling SFR is taking shape over the weeks, with other big names after Free and Bouygues being considered as possible buyers. This news is worrying some of the red-square operator's customers. Especially since some buyers are hinting at their intention to dismantle the company. We take stock of what we know at this stage of the negotiations.
In light of the latest information published on Bloomberg, it seems that the prospect of a sale of SFR is generating growing interest – including abroad. While we revealed a few days ago that Free (Iliad) and Bouygues are positioning themselves as possible buyers, our American colleagues claim that they are being joined by a growing list of competitors.
In France, Orange SA is also entering negotiations. This entry into the arena is not really a surprise given that its only two other competing operators have already announced their intentions. With, in particular, the real risk for the incumbent operator of losing its position as market leader.
There's a lot of excitement surrounding a possible sale of SFR
The threat could become particularly acute if Bouygues wins the auction. Since the latter's interest in the deal is clearly to aggressively compete with Orange. However, the sale could also mean the arrival of a new foreign player in France.
Indeed, Emirates Telecommunications Group, also known under the brand e&, as well as investment firms Ardian and KKR, are now also sitting around the table. With potentially very different intentions. On the one hand, a player like e& could simply take over from Altice, primarily to maintain a presence in the market.
But the strategy of Ardian and KKR could be completely different. The latter could, for example, capitalize instead on a dismantling of the operator, which would allow them to carry out a series of operations to maximize their profits. However, the choice of the potential buyer does not depend solely on the sum they are willing to put on the table.
No need to worry for now if you are a customer
Regulators, in France, as at the European level, will play the role of arbitrators. A takeover or merger with one of the three other French operators seems the most realistic scenarios at this stage. So, what should customers do at this stage? The reality is that they should not be too impacted by the sale of SFR.
Their number will remain the same, as will, presumably, the price of the subscription in most cases. Especially the name at the top of their contract will change. This has already happened to some of SFR's current customers. Since some have joined the red square following acquisitions, such as that of Neuf Telecom, or, more recently, the merger with Numericable.
Whatever happens, the progress of the file will be closely scrutinized, which should seem to give visibility to customers. Once the name of the buyer is known, the operator will communicate with subscribers. This will involve giving them official information on the change of priority, as well as an overview of possible future changes.
Customers who wish to do so will also be able, as until now, to very easily change operator. While taking their phone number with them without additional complexity.
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