Fixed and mobile network provider Orange is rebranding its European TowerCo operation as TOTEM and restructuring it as an independent agency ready to take on the telecommunications market. The announcement from Orange stated that the reinvention of its operator model was part of its large scope Engage 2025 plan.
“Passive mobile infrastructure is a core asset for Orange, benefitting from exceptional operational expertise in the areas of deployment, hosting and maintenance,” said Stéphane Richard, Chairman and CEO of the Orange Group. “We are determined to keep these strategic assets within the scope of the Group. They represent a long-term industrial view and are an essential asset in guaranteeing Orange’s independence as well as its ability to foster sustainable economic performance. Orange is committed to supporting its TowerCo, which will be named TOTEM, both strategically and financially in order to make it a clear leader in the European market.”
When the behind the scenes work is complete and TOTEM goes live later this year, it will begin with a portfolio of 2,500 sites. The locations are concentrated in France and Spain, where Orange already has a large presence. In France, the concentration of 55 percent towers and 45 percent rooftops also offers additional co-location opportunities. TOTEM projections suggest that an additional 3,000 co-location sites will be constructed within the next eight years.
TOTEM’s business plan includes hosting and deploying new tower sites and extending its involvement with 5G, smart cities, and the realm of IOT. As an independently run organization, TOTEM is also expected to present a valuable investment opportunity.
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