As the first neutral provider to come to densely populated areas, CityFast is turning the telecoms market on its head.
The shared infrastructure model has shown its worth in rural areas. This longstanding model, with proven success in public initiative networks (réseaux d’initiative publique), is now being rolled out in large cities thanks to CityFast.
CityFast is a neutral network access services provider that focuses on densely populated areas (Zones Très Denses or ZTD in French). It was specially created as part of the acquisition of Bouygues Telecom’s fibre infrastructure by Axione in 2018, and two investment bodies managed by Vauban Infrastructure Partners (CIF II and QUIMPER COINVEST SCA).
The CityFast network opens up a world of possibilities by allowing companies and individuals to choose their provider from Axione’s 150 partner providers. It also stimulates innovation on the telecoms market thanks to digital content and service providers who can readjust their service offerings in order to set themselves apart and face the competition. Entirely unprecedented in France, a new commercial offering will be gradually made available on the CityFast network in line with the rollout schedule. For private individuals, CityFast will allow access to alternative providers. For businesses, it will provide a disruptive, innovative model, combining the quality of service of dedicated fibre with the flexibility and cost control of a shared fibre network.
Key Figures CityFast will cover 92 of the 106 communes located within the ZTD, representing 3.4 million connections.Throughout 2020, the progressive commercial launch will cover sixty communes, representing over two million connections. Paris will be the first major beneficiary from January, followed by Marseille, Lyon, and others. In 2021, the 32 remaining communes will also be able to benefit from the offering.
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About CityFast
CityFast is a simplified joint-stock company that was specially created as part of the acquisition of Bouygues Telecom’s fibre infrastructure in 2018. Its shareholders include Axione and two investment bodies managed by Vauban Infrastructure Partners (CIF II and QUIMPER COINVEST SCA).
About Axione
Axione is owned by Bouygues Energies & Services and Vauban Infrastructure Partners and is a major player in the rollout of digital technology in both rural and urban areas. As a partner in the French Ultra-High Speed Broadband Plan, Axione designs, builds, finances, and operates new generation digital services (FTTH, 4G, etc.) on its own behalf and for regional authorities and service providers. As a medium for competitive intensity and diversity of offerings, Axione operates in all French regions (highly populated areas [ZTD], and moderately populated areas [ZMD]) and provides telecom operators Ultra-High Speed access services for their subscribers by pooling its digital infrastructure, which is open and accessible to all. Almost 150 providers use the networks operated by Axione.
About Vauban Infrastructure Partners
Vauban Infrastructure Partners is a leading investor in Public-Private Partnerships and concessions in all forms throughout Europe. It has proven experience in both greenfield projects and asset management. Vauban Infrastructure Partners has over €2.5 billion euros under its management, and has already invested in more than 50 infrastructure projects in a wide variety of sectors.