Proximus has submitted an offer for the independent telecommunications provider edpnet. Test Aankoop is dismayed at a possible takeover.

Proximus confirms interest in edpnet to Het Laatste Nieuws. The telecom giant would try to enforce the competitor from the smaller sector in court. Edpnet is under bankruptcy protection and is therefore forced to look for a buyer.

Edpnet is a smaller, independent telecommunications provider. The company from Sint-Niklaas says it wants to stand for “fair telecommunications”. Despite this noble attitude, it is in bad papers: edpnet had to file for bankruptcy protection last year, after which the court ordered the company to be sold to pay off its debts. Interesting detail: Proximus is one of the larger creditors.

“Bad deal for consumers”

The acquisition is not yet complete, but the reactions are not positive at the moment. Consumer organization Test Aankoop fears the takeover would be a bad thing for edpnet’s 66,000 customers (46,000 landline, 20,000 mobile according to the latest figures). If, after Scarlet and Mobile Vikings, edpnet also falls into the hands of one of the big players, there will be even less competition on the market, according to Test Aankoop.

edpnet customers would also like to join Proximus. Customers fear price increases as a result of the takeover. Proximus promises to “guarantee continuity for customers and employees”.

Proximus has the best references

The takeover bid is now before the competent court. Due to the legal process, authorities such as the BIPT and the BCA have less say in this matter. Orange and the ambitious Citymesh-Digi tandem have also reportedly expressed interest, although HLN says Proximus has the best credentials.

“We can’t comment on the result yet. A hearing was held yesterday, but we are now awaiting the verdict of the court,” the provider said.