Lyca Mobile, the world’s largest mobile virtual network operator, is partnering with BT Wholesale – giving customers access to EE, the UK’s number one network, as it targets a new phase of growth in the UK.

The move is part of Lyca Mobile’s strategy to build on its heritage of delivering reliable, low-cost international calling to target a broader value-seeking market by satisfying customer demand for cost-effective mobile connectivity built around three priorities: value, service and reliability.

The new partnership with BT Wholesale will mean that Lyca Mobile’s customers in the UK will gain direct access to EE’s 4G and 5G radio access network. EE was this year named the UK’s best network for the 19th time running by RootMetrics®, rating the network top for reliability, speed and accessibility. EE’s 5G network has availability in nearly every UK town and city covering more than 68% of the UK population, and its 4G network already covers 99% of the population.

As well as connectivity advantages, the customer experience will be enhanced through the full-service wrap provided by BT Wholesale. The partnership will also provide Lyca Mobile customers with future access to services such as WiFi calling.

Richard Schäfer, Lyca Group CEO, said: “The partnership with BT Wholesale is a critical milestone in Lyca Mobile’s strategy to target a broader section of UK mobile users with compelling offers designed to give consumers what they want from their mobile provider - which is quite simply cost-effective and high-quality services. Network performance has become a vital concern for mobile users in a competitive market. Through the EE network, Lyca Mobile customers will not only enjoy the low-cost services we’re famed for, but will be able to enjoy super-fast connectivity and improved coverage.”

Alex Tempest, MD, BT Wholesale, said: “This major new MVNO deal with Lyca Mobile reflects the ongoing importance of wholesale to BT and is testament to the high quality of service we provide to customers and the strength of our EE network – the UK’s best network according to Rootmetrics.*

“Thanks to this partnership, Lyca Mobile customers will receive access to EE’s 4G and 5G network, which currently supports data speeds that are around four times as fast as what they received previously**.

“The deal will see Lyca’s entire customer base move across to EE in what is set to be record time, with BT Wholesale team showing industry-leading capabilities in ensuring a smooth transition of an MVNO between networks.

“We now look forward to working closely with Lyca Mobile as part of this new long-term partnership and aim to provide the best mobile experience for customers.”

Earlier this year, Lyca Mobile announced a freeze on its prices until the end of 2023 amidst industry-wide rises, and has guaranteed EU roaming for customers across its plans. This provision will continue unchanged under its new partnership with BT Wholesale.

BT Wholesale is one of Europe’s largest wholesale telecoms providers and provides communication, collaboration and connectivity services to a range of partners. Its dedicated MVNO Team has many years of experience and supports over 50 brands, providing mobile services to almost 3 million end users.