UK regulator blocks Openreach fibre acquisition discount
Ofcom has told Openreach to withdraw its Incremental New to Openreach offer, saying the proposal was not fair or reasonable and could weaken competition among broadband networks. The discount would have provided internet providers with up to £9.50 per new full-fibre customer each month for as long as 30 months. The regulator was concerned the offer focused only on new customers, potentially making it harder for alternative network operators to grow their user bases.
Ofcom had initially signalled in July that it might block the proposal, then reviewed industry responses before issuing its final ruling. Openreach must notify the regulator and wider sector in advance about certain commercial offers.
The proposed discount would have reduced monthly charges for providers adding new full-fibre customers to Openreach’s network by up to £9.50 per user for as long as 30 months. Openreach said it would examine the ruling and launch other offers; Nexfibre described the outcome as helpful for competition but wanted further measures.
The decision may affect broadband providers and households by shaping how aggressively Openreach can discount new fibre connections. If alternative networks retain room to grow, consumers could see more choice and competitive pricing over time. Conversely, if network investment slows, some areas might face delayed upgrades or fewer options. The outcome mainly concerns ISPs, alt-nets, investors, and customers awaiting full-fibre availability.