Today Vodafone Netherlands and Ericsson Netherlands sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). In the MOU both companies state their intention to outsource parts of its network activities, namely the roll out, the running and the maintenance of the radio network of Vodafone Netherlands to Ericsson. Through this initiative Vodafone Netherlands brings a growth business to the South Limburg region, combines knowledge and experience in the area of radio networks and benefits from the experience and scale of Ericsson. Vodafone maintains full ownership and control over its mobile networks, licenses and contracts with landlords. Ericsson will focus on the quality and further roll out of the radio networks.
In the coming months both parties will further negotiate towards a final agreement. In such an agreement approximately 170 employees of Vodafone Netherlands will be transferred to Ericsson. Ericsson will open a new office in the region of South Limburg from which it will perform the activities (that are part of the MOU) taken over from Vodafone Netherlands. The MOU is submitted for advice to the Vodafone Netherlands Works Council.
Alexander Schuit, CEO Vodafone Netherlands: "This move gives Vodafone Netherlands the opportunity to focus even more on its core competences and its ambition to be number one in customer satisfaction. We choose Ericsson because it operates in a growth business and the company?s commitment to continue this growth in coming years. With Ericsson as an industry leader in managed services offerings we are fully confident that this decision not only contributes to the efficient business management of Vodafone Netherlands but that it also guarantees the continuity and further improvement of the quality. It also brings yet another growth business to the region of South Limburg".
Jef Keustermans, President Ericsson Northern Europe says: "We are proud to expand our long-lasting relationship with Vodafone Netherlands in one of our strategic growth areas. With this agreement, Ericsson can strengthen its leading position in Managed Services."
