The fiber optic installation industry in Europe revolves around delivering high-speed internet and communication solutions. Companies range from specialized installation firms to larger corporations offering full-scale infrastructure services. These players design, install, and maintain fiber optic networks, facilitating faster data transfer and improved connectivity for homes and businesses. With increasing demand for seamless online services, the industry is pacing toward extensive national rollouts of fiber networks. Interesting trends include innovative deployment strategies and collaborative efforts among utilities, aiming to bridge the digital divide in rural areas. All these advancements anticipate a stronger, interconnected future for telecommunications.


Among the top investors in the fiber optic installation sector, venture capital firms like ABN AMRO Clearing Bank and corporate giants such as VINCI Energies play significant roles. Headquartered across Europe, these investors vary in size, from smaller firms with specialized ambitions to large corporations managing thousands of employees. Founded several decades apart, each investor has embraced a clearly defined objective: to capitalize on a growing market segment. In 2024, they collectively participated in numerous deals, emphasizing an upward trend in investment focus on fiber solutions.


Top 13 Fiber Optic Installation Investors in Europe


1. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. The firm has made significant strides in the fiber optic installation industry through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of IP-Only Telecommunication AB, a Swedish fiber-based data communication provider, in 2013, and the acquisition of Deutsche Glasfaser, a major player in the German fiber network market, in 2020. Additionally, EQT acquired Zayo, a leading provider of fiber optic infrastructure in North America, and inexio, a German fiber network company, further solidifying its presence in the fiber optic sector. The acquisition of Lumos Networks Corporation also highlights EQT's focus on expanding its footprint in the U.S. fiber-optic network services market. These transactions underscore EQT's active role in the fiber optic installation industry.


2. Instalco

  • Website: instalco.se
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: instalco

Instalco is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in installation and consulting services across various sectors, including plumbing, electrical, ventilation, and industrial services. Founded in 2014, Instalco operates through a decentralized model, allowing local companies to retain their identity while benefiting from shared resources and best practices. Notably, Instalco has made several acquisitions that enhance its service offerings. For instance, the acquisition of Telefuusio Ltd in 2017 suggests a strategic move towards telecommunications, which may include fiber optic services. Additionally, their acquisition of Östersjö Elektriska in 2020 aimed to strengthen their electrical installation capabilities, potentially overlapping with fiber optic installations. Other acquisitions, such as El-Expressen and LIAB Instrumenteringar, further indicate their commitment to expanding their electrical and industrial service portfolio, which could encompass fiber optic work.


3. VINCI Energies

  • Website: vinci-energies.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Nanterre, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: vinci-energies

VINCI Energies is a corporate investor based in Nanterre, Île-De-France, France, specializing in engineering and infrastructure solutions. Founded in 2003, the company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and focuses on energy infrastructure, industrial performance, digital transformation, and sustainable building management. VINCI Energies serves a diverse range of businesses and organizations, providing tailored solutions to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. Notably, VINCI Energies has made several strategic acquisitions in the telecommunications sector, including the acquisition of OFM, a German telecommunications infrastructure company, which focuses on fast broadband and ICT solutions. Additionally, the acquisition of HG Comms in the UK and SITS, which specializes in telecommunications and railway signaling infrastructure, further solidifies their commitment to expanding their telecommunications capabilities. The acquisition of the Rhön-Montage Group, a leading service provider for FTTH (Fiber to the Home) broadband infrastructures in Germany, highlights their focus on enhancing broadband expansion, particularly in fiber optic installations. These transactions reflect VINCI Energies' strategic direction towards becoming a key player in the fiber optic installation market.


4. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. EIB's mission is to promote growth and job creation through its funding initiatives. In the context of fiber optic installation, EIB has been involved in several significant transactions, including providing debt financing to Deutsche Glasfaser, which raised over $391 million in September 2024, and Telefonica Germany, which secured nearly $497 million in February 2020. Additionally, EIB has supported other fiber optic companies such as Gigaclear, Hyperoptic, and SIRO Ireland, indicating a strong commitment to enhancing telecommunications infrastructure through fiber optics.


5. ABN AMRO Clearing Bank

  • Website: abnamro.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: abn-amro-clearing-bank-n-v-

ABN AMRO Clearing Bank, founded in 1982 and based in Amsterdam, North Holland, is a banking institution that provides a range of financial services including personal banking, business banking, and investment management. The bank serves individual consumers and businesses, helping them manage their financial needs and investments while ensuring compliance with financial regulations. In recent years, ABN AMRO has been involved in several significant transactions in the fiber optic installation sector. For instance, they participated in the financing of Glasfaser Nordwest's FTTH network expansion, raising approximately €800 million to support the rollout of fiber to 1.5 million customers by 2030. They also took part in the capex financing rounds for Deutsche GigaNetz GmbH, which secured substantial funding for its fiber optic projects. Furthermore, ABN AMRO was involved in the debt financing of GlasDraad, indicating their active role in supporting fiber optic infrastructure development.


6. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in Lumenisity, a fiber optic and cabling technology firm, contributing £5 million to their £7.5 million funding round aimed at commercializing research and building a new manufacturing facility. This investment highlights BGF's active role in the fiber optic installation industry. Additionally, BGF has participated in various other funding rounds, including investments in companies like Frontrow Energy Technology and Bigblu Broadband, showcasing their diverse portfolio while maintaining a focus on growth-oriented businesses.


7. Spie

  • Website: spie.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Cergy, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1990
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: spie_2

SPIE is a multi-technical services provider specializing in energy and communications, founded in 1990 and based in Cergy, Île-De-France, France. With over 10,000 employees, SPIE offers a wide range of services including energy efficiency solutions, hydrogen production, and smart city initiatives. The company has made significant strides in the telecommunications sector, as evidenced by its acquisition of K.E.M. Montage, a key player in the Austrian telecommunications infrastructure market, which enhances SPIE's capabilities in fiber optic installation. Additionally, the acquisition of Mer ICT B.V. allows SPIE to expand its service offerings in integrated communication solutions, further solidifying its position in the fiber optic and telecommunications landscape. SPIE's diverse clientele spans various sectors, including government and healthcare, who rely on SPIE for innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions.


8. Ardian

  • Website: ardian.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: ardian

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions. Founded in 1996, Ardian has established a global presence and focuses on sustainable finance, aiming to create lasting value for its clients. In recent years, Ardian has made significant strides in the telecommunications sector, particularly in fiber optics. Noteworthy transactions include the acquisition of Adamo Telecom Iberia, a fiber optic operator in Spain, which marks a strategic entry into the telecommunications market. Additionally, Ardian's acquisition of a 50% stake in MXT Holdings, a telecommunications infrastructure company in Mexico, and their investment in Mila, the Icelandic telecommunications network, further underscore their commitment to expanding their footprint in the fiber optic and telecommunications industries. These investments reflect Ardian's strategy to tap into high-quality private market opportunities, particularly in sectors that are critical for modern connectivity.


9. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship throughout Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. The EIC also provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation across different sectors. Notably, the EIC has been involved in funding transactions relevant to the fiber optic installation industry, such as supporting Cailabs, a company specializing in laser communications and optical ground stations, which raised €26 million in a Series C funding round. Additionally, the EIC has provided grants to other photonics companies like NewPhotonics and Lumiphase, further demonstrating its commitment to advancing technologies that intersect with fiber optics.


10. iCON Infrastructure LLP


iCON Infrastructure LLP is a private equity investment firm based in London, England, specializing in infrastructure investments. Founded in 2011, the firm manages funds for institutional investors, including pension funds and insurance companies, seeking reliable investment returns. iCON Infrastructure has a diverse portfolio that includes significant investments in the telecommunications sector, particularly in fiber optic networks. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a controlling interest in the Strategic Fiber Networks Group, which encompasses NGN Telecom and other fiber-related businesses in Germany, aimed at improving connectivity in rural areas. Additionally, iCON acquired BornFiber, further solidifying its presence in the fiber optic installation market. These strategic investments highlight iCON's focus on enhancing fiber infrastructure, making it a key player in the industry.


11. Deutsche Beteiligungs AG

  • Website: dbag.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1965
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-beteiligungs-ag

Deutsche Beteiligungs AG (DBAG) is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 1965. The firm specializes in investments in mid-sized companies, focusing on providing capital and advisory services to enhance growth potential. DBAG operates primarily in sectors such as telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare. Notably, DBAG has made significant investments in the telecommunications sector, including the acquisition of a majority stake in Netzkontor Nord, a telecommunications service provider, and investments in companies like Vitronet Group and DNS:Net, which are likely involved in fiber optic services. These transactions highlight DBAG's commitment to enhancing its portfolio in the telecommunications space, particularly in areas relevant to fiber optic installation.


12. Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLP


Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLP is a private equity investment management firm based in London, England, specializing in infrastructure fund management. Founded in 2009, the firm focuses on the European mid-market and manages assets across diverse sectors, including Digital, Transport, Energy, and Logistics & Industrials. Notably, Arcus has made significant strides in the fiber optic installation industry, acquiring E-Fiber Exploitatie B.V., a fiber-to-the-home business in the Netherlands, and Swiss4net Holding A.G., a similar entity in Switzerland, both announced in May 2018. Additionally, in December 2023, they acquired IPHH Internet Port Hamburg, a regional data center operator and ISP, further expanding their footprint in the digital infrastructure space. These transactions highlight Arcus's strategic focus on enhancing fiber optic capabilities within their investment portfolio.


13. Triton Partners


Triton Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in private equity and credit investments in European mid-market businesses, focusing on sectors such as Business Services, Industrial Tech, and Healthcare. Triton provides operational expertise and capital to help companies unlock their full potential, partnering with management teams to address challenges and drive growth. Notably, Triton has made significant acquisitions in the utility sector, including the acquisition of OCU Group, which encompasses Instalcom, a company that is well-positioned for growth in utility services, potentially including fiber optic installation. This strategic move aligns with Triton's interest in facilitating investments in regulated and non-regulated opportunities, particularly in the context of the UK's energy transition towards renewable power. Other acquisitions, such as Akeab and Unica Group, further demonstrate Triton's commitment to enhancing operational capabilities in sectors that may intersect with fiber optic technologies.



Fiber Optic Installation Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
InstalcoStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-500020142
VINCI EnergiesNanterre, Île-De-France, France10001+200313
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
ABN AMRO Clearing BankAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands501-1000198219
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
SpieCergy, Île-De-France, France10001+199010
ArdianParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000199621
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
iCON Infrastructure LLPLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020111
Deutsche Beteiligungs AGFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany51-20019652
Arcus Infrastructure Partners LLPLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020093
Triton PartnersLuxembourg201-50019976


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