20:20 tipped for French MVNO deal

Dutch operator KPN will launch an MVNO in France on the back of Bouygues Telecom’s network.

KPN said last week it was readying a new MVNO to piggyback on Bouygues Telecom’s network in France, but refused to confirm branding, pricing, launch dates or distribution for the venture.

French business daily Les Echos claimed KPN is looking to replicate the business model of its Spanish low-cost MVNO brand ‘Simyo’ in France.

Simyo launched in Spain on the Orange network in June.

20:20 Mobile provides distribution and fulfilment to Simyo in Spain and is considered a likely distribution partner for the new operation in France, where 20:20 has an established presence.

A KPN spokesperson said: “We intend to act as an MVNO in France on Bouygues Telecom, but we cannot say anything more.”

20:20 refused to comment. Group chief Meinie Oldersma (pictured) said recently it is looking to expand existing supply deals in France and Spain.

The Simyo MVNO is a SIM-only operation and utilises the web for sales, activation, bill management and customer enquiries.