Swisscom, Groupe E warn Fribourg network JV is in danger

Swisscom and local utilities provider Groupe E have warned that their fibre-optic network JV in Fribourg is in jeopardy after the Swiss Competition Commission (Weko) criticised several key clauses of the agreement. Both partners are keen to continue talks with authorities to find a solution as quickly as possible. Swisscom warns that without a joint solution, there is a risk that expansion of the fibre-optic network in the cantons of Fribourg and Neuchatel and in part of the canton of Vaud may have to be stopped. In order to be able to proceed with the extensive investments needed for this project, Groupe E and Swisscom require an agreement within their JV that will facilitate expansion of the fibre-optic network with an acceptable level of business risk. However, following Weko's report, they feel that such an acceptable level of risk no longer exists.