Openreach is considering further targeted fibre discounts over the next five years, after Ofcom blocked its most aggressive attempt to cut wholesale prices. The BT-owned network stated it remains open to competition in different parts of the country.
Ofcom ordered Openreach to withdraw its 'Incremental new to Openreach customer offer', which would have provided broadband providers with a £35 connection rebate and discounts of up to £9.50 per customer a month. The regulator concluded this offer was not "fair and responsible", citing concerns that rival networks might struggle to match prices while recovering costs.
However, Ofcom did approve other Openreach proposals, including a £50 rebate for new full-fibre customers in areas served by Virgin Media O2. An Openreach spokesperson indicated that the company expects to launch further offers within the five-year period of the Telecoms Access Review (TAR) framework, which governs the UK's fixed telecoms market from April 2026 to March 2031.
Openreach does not sell broadband directly to households. The company stated that while it is up to communications providers (CPs) to decide how they use the offers, the aim is to strengthen their ability to compete on value and service. This, in a more competitive market, should help create better deals and make fibre more attractive for households and businesses.