Paris—Global law firm Dentons has advised French multinational telecom operator Orange on the creation of Orange Concessions and the sale of a 50% equity share in the company to a consortium of investors formed by Banque des Territoires, CNP Assurances and EDF Invest. Valued at €2.675 billion, Orange Concessions will be the leading fiber network operator in rural France. The transaction should be finalized by the end of 2021.

This strategic transaction will support Orange’s efforts to develop fiber infrastructure throughout the rural areas of France. Orange Concessions will operate 23 public initiative networks representing over 4.5 million built or to-be-built plugs, making it France’s leading provider of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks operated on behalf of public authorities.

Dentons advised Orange on the structuring, drafting and negotiation of all operational and project documentation to be concluded between the holders of Public Initiative Networks, Orange Concessions and Orange SA. Paris-based partner Christophe Fichet (TMT) led the Dentons legal team, with support from counsel Dorothée Griveaux (Public Law), and associates Maxime d'Angelo Petrucci (TMT) and Marie Decrette (M&A).

Dentons’ Technology, Media and Telecommunications practice has more than 500 lawyers worldwide, who provide M&A, regulatory, data protection and IP advice to support clients on high-value projects and strategic growth.

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