Our team recently attended Connected Britain at ExCel London, where we had the opportunity to engage with decision-makers and gain insights into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the telecoms sector.
Throughout the event, several influential speakers shared their visions on the future of telecommunications, focusing on topics ranging from digital infrastructure and fibre rollout to emerging technologies transforming connectivity. Notable contributors included:
- Alexia Course, Chief Commercial Officer of Transport for Wales (TfW), emphasised the critical role of infrastructure in supporting the future of digital transport systems. Her insights into how transport and telecoms are increasingly intertwined provided a fascinating glimpse into how integrated networks could enable seamless, smart city experiences.
- Greg Mesch, CEO of CityFibre, discussed the aggressive expansion of full-fibre networks across the UK and the critical need for public-private partnerships to accelerate digital inclusion. His vision for a “Gigabit Britain” resonated with the broader theme of building future-proof connectivity that benefits all regions, not just urban centres.
- Dana Tobak, CEO of Hyperoptic, highlighted the growing demand for ultra-fast, reliable internet services and how Hyperoptic is working to meet this demand, particularly in underserved areas. Her focus on customer-centric solutions and how the company is overcoming challenges in reaching hard-to-connect locations was both inspiring and insightful.
- Vicky Hicks from BT shed light on BT’s future-focused strategies, particularly in expanding 5G networks and delivering next-generation broadband services. Her talk emphasised how BT is positioning itself to be a leader in both technological innovation and sustainability within the telecoms space.
Key Takeaways:
- The Future is Fibre: There was a strong consensus that the UK’s telecoms future is grounded in fibre optic infrastructure. Full-fibre deployment is no longer a luxury but a necessity for ensuring the country’s competitive edge on the global stage. Both CityFibre and Hyperoptic underscored the importance of nationwide fibre rollouts and the need for collaboration between government, regulators, and private companies to make it happen.
- 5G and Beyond: While 5G continues to be a hot topic, speakers like Vicky Hicks pointed out that the focus is rapidly shifting towards how to integrate 5G with other technologies like AI and IoT to create smarter, more responsive networks. This will be vital for industries such as transport, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- Digital Inclusion: There was also considerable discussion around ensuring that the benefits of improved connectivity are felt by all, not just in urban centres but across rural areas. The push for greater inclusivity, highlighted by Alexia Course, is critical in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet services.
- Collaboration is Key: Whether in the public sector or private enterprises, speakers unanimously agreed on the importance of collaboration to achieve the ambitious goals set for the UK’s digital future. From working with local councils to coordinating with utility providers, the telecoms industry must leverage strong partnerships to overcome challenges related to infrastructure, regulation, and consumer adoption
