Frost & Sullivan Experts Disclose Operators’ 5G Strategies in Europe
June 26, 2018 | Frost & SullivanEstimated reading time: 2 minutes

Existing 4G networks are proving inadequate to support the wide range of bandwidth-intensive services such as multimedia, video conferencing, and online shopping. As a result, mobile network operators are increasingly looking to upgrade to 5G technology. This next-generation technology will ensure uninterrupted connectivity even during peak times, as well as offer the speed required for services such as enhanced mobile broadband and Internet of Things (IoT). Significantly, 5G has the potential to facilitate a truly converged network, as it incorporates a number of existing technological solutions and is interoperable with previous generation technologies.
ThinkstockPhotos-959319860.jpg"As the number of connected devices is set to rise exponentially over the next decade, there will be an even stronger push to adopt 5G technologies, especially in densely populated urban areas,” said Fiona Vanier, Digital Transformation Senior Industry Analyst at Frost & Sullivan. "With the rise of IoT, 5G technology could be the ideal tool to enable driverless cars, smart cities, and Industrial IoT (IIoT)."
Frost & Sullivan’s recent analysis, Operator Strategies and Vertical Perspectives for 5G in Europe, Forecast to 2024, provides detailed descriptions of the different technologies that are used for the implementation of 5G technology. Use cases are presented for the application of 5G within three verticals—industry/manufacturing (IIoT), street lighting in smart cities, and public and private transportation. The study also covers pilot schemes in France, Italy, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, and the UK.
Most European operators have an established base of 3G and 4G services, and as such, they will need incentives to upgrade to 5G technology. Network sharing, network leasing, and software solutions can reduce upfront costs, while partnerships with companies in vertical markets will ensure additional revenue. Some of the early movers in this field include Vodafone, Telefonica, Deutsche Telekom and British Telecom.
Network operators can make the most of the growth opportunities afforded by 5G by:
- Conducting trials in collaboration with companies from vertical markets to prepare for the launch of alternative services supported by 5G technology.
- Focusing on vertical markets such as manufacturing, smart city systems and healthcare.
- Collaborating with suppliers of over-the-top (OTT) services offering sports, music, feature films and/or TV series to retain customers.
- Forming strong relationships with companies that provide tried-and-tested cybersecurity solutions.
- Allying with local operators when entering emerging markets, since they are best positioned to identify the ideal opportunities for growth.
"Collaborative projects that involve government organisations or educational institutions can help raise the profile of companies looking to enter foreign markets," noted Vanier. "Presenting a greater variety of value-added services for higher customer retention and delivering local content will be crucial for breaking into emerging markets."
Operator Strategies and Vertical Perspectives for 5G in Europe, Forecast to 2024 is part of Frost & Sullivan’s global Connected Industries Growth Partnership Service program.
About Frost & Sullivan
For over five decades, Frost & Sullivan has become world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success.
Testimonial
"In a year when every marketing dollar mattered, I chose to keep I-Connect007 in our 2025 plan. Their commitment to high-quality, insightful content aligns with Koh Young’s values and helps readers navigate a changing industry. "
Brent Fischthal - Koh YoungSuggested Items
Circus SE Set for High-Volume Market Entry in the Defense Sector
10/17/2025 | BUSINESS WIRECircus SE a global technology leader in AI robotics for autonomous nutrition systems and troop supply, is expanding its global production network as part of its high-volume market entry into the defense sector.
China Expands Rare Earth Export Restrictions, Tightening Grip on Global Supply Chains
10/16/2025 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamChina sharply expanded its rare earth export restrictions on Oct. 9, adding additional elements and refining technologies to its control list while imposing stricter rules on foreign users in the defense and semiconductor industries.
SAMI Advanced Electronics Company Launches “Remal” Computer Manufacturing Project in Partnership with HP and Foxconn
10/15/2025 | SAMI-AECSAMI Advanced Electronics Company (SAMI-AEC), a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), proudly announced the launch of the “Remal” project for computer manufacturing, in strategic partnership with HP and Foxconn.
The Right Approach: Electro-Tek—A Williams Family Legacy, Part 1
10/15/2025 | Steve Williams -- Column: The Right ApproachThere is no bronze bust in the lobby or portrait in the conference room of Electro-Tek's founder—my Dad, Charles “Chuck” Williams—so with the facility closing last year after 56 years, I feel it is time to tell the story. Chuck Williams founded Electro-Tek in 1968 in our basement, eventually moving into the second floor of an old 1913 building in downtown Milwaukee that is still standing (the first of three eventual facilities).
LPKF Joins productronica’s 50th Anniversary, Showcasing Laser Technology for Electronics Manufacturing
10/10/2025 | LPKF Laser & ElectronicsLPKF Laser & Electronics invites visitors to productronica 2025 in Munich from November 18 to 21. At booth 305 in hall B2, the company will present its portfolio of modern laser technologies for the electronics industry live – from prototyping systems and high-performance depaneling to laser plastic welding for electronic housings and thin glass processing for advanced packaging.