UK competition watchdog warns £2bn Nexfibre-Netomnia broadband merger could push up prices for consumers

From the Newshound archive · first published 2 October 2026.

The Competition and Markets Authority has provisionally found that the £2bn merger between fibre broadband firms Nexfibre and Netomnia could harm wholesale broadband competition across the UK. The regulator warns the deal risks reducing consumer choice and pushing up prices if it is allowed to proceed.

The CMA's provisional finding signals it may move to block the deal entirely unless the companies offer adequate remedies.

The merger would combine two significant players in the UK's wholesale fixed broadband market, raising fears of reduced competition at infrastructure level.

Regulators are expected to publish their final ruling after a further review period, leaving the £2bn deal's future in serious doubt.