Orange and T-Mobile will operate for 18 months at least

2 March 2010 11:26 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Orange and T-Mobile have said that they plan to run the two companies for at least 18 months after the merger goes through according to a statement.

"The T-Mobile and Orange UK brands will continue to operate in the UK for at least 18 months after the completion of the transaction".

The news may go some way to alleviate fears customers may have had over the merger and how it would impact on them.

First announced last year, the European Commission has finally given a green light to the move allowing the two companies to merge in the UK. Following the merger, the new joint venture company will be market leader in the UK mobile market serving 29.5 million customers.

The deal will see 25% of the 1800MHz spectrum offered up to competitors to expand mobile broadband, and 3 being allowed to use another 3000 mast sites to bulk up its 3G network.

Tom Alexander, currently CEO of Orange UK will become the CEO of the new company while Richard Moat, currently CEO of T-Mobile UK will take on the role of chief operating officer.

Full tags

Phones, Biz, Orange, T-Mobile, Mergers