Tele2 and the strategic role of virtual operations

Abstract

Purpose

Although there has been some discussion of virtual operations, especially those of mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), in the literature, there have been very few full‐scale case studies. This case study aims to examine the strategy of a very large virtual operator, Tele2.

Design/methodology/approach

The procedure of the study is to examine the meaning of the term “virtual operator”, to see how this can be applied over time to Tele2 and hence to determine whether Tele2's success has been dependent on using a virtual operator model.

Findings

It is established in the paper that Tele2's initial success was closely linked to its virtual operator status, but also that it has increasingly tended to behave like an infrastructure‐based operator as the competitive landscape has evolved.

Research limitations/implications

There are strictly no other operators directly comparable with Tele2.

Originality/value

Case studies in the field of virtual operations are scarce and limited in their scope. This paper accordingly adds significantly to the literature.

Citation

Curwen, P. and Whalley, J. (2007), "Tele2 and the strategic role of virtual operations", info, Vol. 9 No. 4, pp. 55-69. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636690710762138