Orange has signed three new mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs); Unicom, Catalyst and Axis Telecom. These deals have been secured on the Orange Partner Platform via Transatel, Orange’s mobile virtual network aggregator (MVNA).

These MVNOs will benefit from Orange’s extensive GSM network which reaches 99% of the UK population and Orange’s 3G network which currently covers over 93% of the UK population - more than any other network.

Unicom, the fixed line service provider, to launch as a B2B  MVNO selling mobile services, initially to its existing base of some 80,000 customers, and will provide billing for both fixed and mobile services on the same invoice.

Catalyst to provide mobile services through partners, for niche groups such as students, ethnic minorities and SMEs.

Axis Telecom will provide a mobile offering to its current customer base of over 14,000 businesses and residential customers through a number of SIM only deals All three MVNO’s are expected to launch in the first half of this year.

Furthermore, with Transatel’s speed to market, companies are able to launch as an MVNO in just six weeks – making it quicker, easier and more cost-effective than ever before. This is expected to appeal to telecom resellers targeting both the SME and residential market and companies that have either a brand distribution network or installed customer base that would like to become an MVNO.