EQT VI has agreed to acquire Norwegian operator Ventelo from BKK, Troms Kraft, Agder Energi, NTE, Eidsiva Bredband and Altibox for an equity value of up to NOK 1.8 billion. Ventelo is Norway's second largest provider of data and telecom services, in addition to controlling one of only two nationwide fibre networks in Norway, with metro ring networks in the largest cities. Ventelo expects revenues in 2011 of NOK 2.6 billion and EBITDA of approximately NOK 400 million. EQT VI's strategy is to significantly strengthen the fibre network offering to Norwegian companies and organisations by creating a strong challenger in the Norwegian data and telecom market. EQT VI will provide expertise, resources and support for further profitable growth and fibre network expansion. Gunnar Asp will take the role as chairman of the new Ventelo board of directors. Gunnar Asp is industrial advisor to EQT VI and chairman of, among others, EQT V-owned InFiber (former Hafslund Fibernett), acquired in January 2011. InFiber is the owner and operator of Norway's largest operator-neutral optical fibre network, located in the Greater Oslo area. The transaction is subject to approval from the Norwegian Competition Authority.
