Key Stats
- Vodafone Group operates in over 150 countries with approximately 92,000 employees worldwide
- Market capitalization stands at approximately $27.83 billion as of November 2025
- Annual revenue reached $38.78 billion with 300 million mobile customers globally
- Company serves major markets including Germany with 30 million customers and UK with 18 million customers
- Generated adjusted free cash flow of €2.5 billion in fiscal year 2025
Vodafone Group Plc stands as a major telecommunications provider delivering mobile and broadband services across multiple continents. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Newbury, United Kingdom, the company evolved from a subsidiary of Racal Electronics into an independent telecommunications giant.
The organization operates through distinct business segments serving both consumer and enterprise markets. Vodafone provides voice communications, messaging services, mobile data, and fixed broadband solutions to millions of customers.
The company’s portfolio includes integrated communications for businesses, mobile connectivity solutions, and Internet of Things services. Vodafone maintains strong market positions in European and African markets while continuing to invest in network infrastructure and digital services.
Vodafone Group Plc History
Vodafone Group Plc Co-founders
Sir Ernest Harrison
Chairman of Racal Electronics who initiated the move into commercial mobile radio in 1980, striking the deal that allowed Racal to access GEC’s tactical battlefield radio technology.
Gerry Whent
Head of Racal’s military radio division who drove the company into commercial mobile communications and became the first CEO when Vodafone demerged in 1991.
Jan Stenbeck
Swedish entrepreneur who approached Racal about bidding jointly for the UK’s second cellular radio license in 1982 through his company Millicom.
Vodafone Group Plc Competitors
Vodafone Group Plc operates in a competitive telecommunications landscape facing major international carriers across multiple markets. The company competes with established operators offering similar mobile and broadband services to consumers and businesses.
| Competitor | Headquarters | Primary Markets |
|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Hong Kong | China, Hong Kong, Pakistan |
| Verizon Communications | New York, USA | United States |
| AT&T | Dallas, USA | United States, Mexico |
| Deutsche Telekom | Bonn, Germany | Germany, Europe, USA |
| Telefónica | Madrid, Spain | Spain, Latin America |
| Orange | Paris, France | France, Europe, Africa |
| NTT DoCoMo | Tokyo, Japan | Japan |
| T-Mobile | Bonn, Germany | USA, Europe |
| BT Group | London, UK | United Kingdom |
| Bharti Airtel | New Delhi, India | India, Africa |
Vodafone Group Plc Acquisitions
Vodafone Group Plc pursued aggressive expansion through strategic acquisitions that transformed the company into a global telecommunications leader. The acquisition strategy focused on gaining market share, expanding geographic footprint, and enhancing service capabilities across multiple regions.
The 1999 AirTouch Communications acquisition marked a pivotal moment in company history. This transaction gave Vodafone significant presence in the United States market and a 35% share in Mannesmann. The deal completed on June 29, reshaping the competitive landscape.
The hostile takeover of Mannesmann in 2000 represented the largest corporate merger at that time, valued at £112 billion. This acquisition faced strong resistance in Germany but ultimately succeeded in February. Vodafone gained control of Orange brand but divested it to France Télécom in May 2000 to secure regulatory approval.
Vodafone expanded into Asian markets through multiple transactions. The 2001 acquisition of Eircell from eircom established operations in Ireland. The same year, Vodafone acquired J-Phone, Japan’s third-largest mobile operator known for introducing camera phones. These moves demonstrated commitment to international growth.
The company acquired Cable & Wireless Worldwide in 2012 for £1.04 billion, gaining access to fiber network infrastructure for business services. This transaction enabled Vodafone to offer unified communications solutions to large enterprises in UK and globally.
Vodafone bought German cable company Kabel Deutschland in 2013 for €7.7 billion, winning against rival Liberty Global. The same year, Vodafone sold its 45% stake in Verizon Wireless to Verizon Communications for $130 billion, one of the biggest deals in corporate history.
In 2011, Vodafone Group Plc bought the remaining shares of Vodafone Essar from Essar Group for $5 billion, consolidating its position in the Indian market. The company also acquired Reading-based Bluefish Communications to strengthen professional services offerings.
Vodafone Group Plc Revenue
Vodafone Group Plc generated revenue of $38.78 billion in 2025, showing modest growth from previous year. The company’s revenue performance reflects strategic portfolio restructuring following disposals of Spain and Italy operations.
Vodafone Group Plc Market Cap
Vodafone Group Plc maintains market capitalization of approximately $27.83 billion as of November 2025. The valuation represents significant decline from peak market cap but reflects focused strategy on core markets.
FAQs
When was Vodafone Group Plc founded?
Vodafone launched on January 1, 1985, as Racal-Vodafone Holdings Ltd. The company became independent Vodafone Group after demerging from Racal Electronics on September 16, 1991.
Where is Vodafone Group Plc headquartered?
Vodafone Group Plc is headquartered in Newbury, Berkshire, United Kingdom. The company established its first office in The Courtyard in Newbury when launching operations in 1985.
How many employees does Vodafone Group Plc have?
Vodafone Group Plc employs approximately 92,000 people worldwide as of 2025. The workforce includes employees in customer care, sales, distribution, and operations across multiple countries.
What markets does Vodafone Group Plc serve?
Vodafone operates in over 150 countries with strongest presence in Germany, United Kingdom, and Africa. The company serves approximately 300 million mobile customers globally across consumer and business segments.
Who are Vodafone Group Plc main competitors?
Vodafone competes against China Mobile, AT&T, Deutsche Telekom, Orange, and T-Mobile. Competition varies by market with regional telecommunications operators challenging Vodafone’s position.