Yettel, a prominent mobile operator in Serbia, has announced plans for a merger with the state-owned cable operator SBB, scheduled to take effect on April 1, 2026. Mike Michel, Yettel’s Chief Executive Officer, confirmed that the company will also continue its expansion of the 5G network across Serbia during the same year.
As part of the merger arrangement, SBB will be fully integrated into Yettel, ceasing to exist as a separate legal entity. While the SBB brand will not disappear immediately, the long-term strategy aims for both companies to operate under a unified brand identity.
Michel highlighted that 2025 will mark a significant milestone for Yettel due to its acquisition of SBB by e& and PPF Telecom Group, initiating the integration process. This merger combines Yettel’s strengths in mobile communications with SBB’s capabilities in household broadband and television services, transforming the joint entity into a more comprehensive digital and technology provider. The goal is to enhance service offerings for individual and corporate clients while streamlining costs through a high-quality network.
The CEO emphasized that Yettel’s upgraded network infrastructure is a competitive advantage, having already made substantial improvements to support modern technologies like 5G. Early adoption has seen 5G traffic significantly contribute to total mobile data usage, with plans for coverage expansion extending beyond major urban areas and tourist destinations.
In terms of financial commitments, Yettel has invested over €100 million in spectrum licenses and more than €60 million in network modernization throughout 2025. These investments are critical for the successful rollout of 5G services, which promise faster speeds, lower latency, and improved reliability for both consumers and businesses.
Commercially, Yettel reported growth in its customer base across mobile, home internet, and TV services, nearing a total of 900,000 users when combined with SBB. The company is focused on further expanding its service ecosystem.
Additionally, Michel mentioned ongoing efforts to incorporate digital banking services into Yettel’s offerings, aiming to position Yettel Bank as a leading retail bank in Serbia. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to integrate telecommunications with financial services within their digital ecosystem.
Looking forward to 2026, Yettel plans to advance its digital transformation initiatives by prioritizing data utilization, artificial intelligence, and innovative service development as key components for future growth. Michel reaffirmed the company’s commitment to leading Serbia’s digital landscape.
