Youfone will launch fixed and mobile services in Belgium in April, having brokered a wholesale deal with incumbent operator Proximus.
Heralding from the neighbouring Netherlands, Youfone has signed two agreements with Proximus, one that will allow it to operate as an MVNO on its mobile network and a second that facilitates fixed network access.
“Youfone is a lean and mean company focusing on innovative, digital and customer-friendly solutions,” said Geert Standaert, Chief Technology Officer at Proximus. That suggests low prices and few frills, which will doubtless find favour with certain market segments. Indeed, in its home market, where it uses KPN’s network, the company describes itself as a provider of premium quality services for a low price; its offers comprising a SIM-only mobile service, fixed broadband and TV plans.
“They have an impressive track record and proven success in the Netherlands. We are glad to be their preferred partner in Belgium,” Standaert said.
Youfone has built up a customer base of around 400,000 since it was founded in 2008. It notes that it focuses primarily on the consumer segment. While not a huge number of customers, it is enough to catch the attention of the bigger players, particularly presuming the company is attracting customers from the younger end of the market.
Belgium’s established players will have to keep an eye out for this ‘lean and mean’ newcomer. Nonetheless, Proximus is calling it a win-win situation.
“The partnership with Proximus will allow Youfone to reach potential customers throughout the country and quickly scale up its business. For Proximus, the agreement marks another step towards exploiting the full potential of its network assets,” it said.