3UK said on Thursday that 42% of its customer base now regularly access its 4G network.
In its latest corporate update, the country’s smallest mobile operator by subscribers revealed that it added 478,000 customers in 2014 – slightly lower than the 565,000 added in 2013 – giving it a total of 8.4 million, which would put its 4G customer base at more than 3.5 million.
Chief executive Dave Dyson claimed on a conference call that his company has the highest 4G take-up rate in the U.K. mobile market, adding that the average 4G speed on 3UK’s network is three times faster compared to the average speed of its 3G service.
3UK soft-launched 4G in late 2013 at the same price as its 3G service. It aims to provide 4G coverage to 98% of the population by the end of this year.
Unfortunately for the telco hacks listening in to Thursday’s call, Dyson began it with a declaration that he would not be commenting on the hot topic of the moment: his company’s merger negotiations with rival O2.
In January, 3UK parent Hutchison Whampoa entered exclusive talks to acquire Telefonica’s O2 UK arm in a deal worth £10.25 billion. If a merger goes ahead, it will create a mobile operator with around 32 million subscribers – comfortably the largest in the country.
"Discussions are ongoing," said Dyson on Thursday, insisting that he had "nothing to add" on the subject.
Meanwhile, on the financial side, 3UK grew its earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) to £314 million in 2014, up from £207 million in 2013.
"Our 2014 financial results demonstrate the successful execution of our strategy. New and existing customers are increasingly attracted to 3UK for our quality data network and offers like Feel At Home, which also means they are choosing to spend more and stay longer because of the value they receive," said finance chief Richard Woodward, in a statement.
Indeed, Feel At Home has scrapped roaming charges in 16 countries, including the U.S., France, Italy and Australia. From 1 April, Dyson said Feel At Home will be extended to Spain and New Zealand, by which point approximately 65% of 3UK customers’ overseas trips will be covered.
