United Group is a prominent conglomerate with diverse operations spanning telecommunications, media, real estate, and manufacturing across various regions.
Background
Established in 2007, United Group has evolved into a leading multi-play telecoms and media provider in Southeast Europe. The company offers a comprehensive range of telecommunications services, including fixed and mobile telephony, broadband internet, and television. With the broadest network coverage in the region, United Group delivers an extensive selection of content, from local offerings to international programming. The company's mission is to develop, build, and acquire vibrant communities where residents, investors, partners, and commercial clients feel welcome, connected, and fulfilled. United Group is committed to innovation, as evidenced by its award-winning lifestyle programs and technological advancements.
Key Strategic Focus
United Group's strategic focus centers on expanding its telecommunications and media services across Southeast Europe. The company specializes in providing multi-play services, integrating fixed and mobile telephony, broadband internet, and television. Key technologies utilized include digital landline telephony services and advanced TV platforms like Eon TV, which allows viewers to watch TV via smart TV apps. United Group targets markets in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Greece, aiming to enhance digital infrastructure and content offerings in these regions.
Financials and Funding
As of September 30, 2024, United Group reported revenues of €2,945 million, with 14,761 full-time employees and 5.42 million homes passed. The company has attracted significant investment from leading global investors. In March 2019, BC Partners, a prominent alternative investment firm, became the majority owner of United Group. BC Partners has a history of active involvement in the European buy-out market, with over €40 billion in assets under management.
Pipeline Development
United Group continues to expand its service offerings and market presence. The company has grown through acquisitions, including cable TV operators, content platforms, and mobile service providers, strengthening its customer offerings and regional presence. United Group provides fixed and mobile telephony to numerous households and offices, offering data and voice services, as well as certified managed services to small, medium, and large companies.
Technological Platform and Innovation
United Group has developed a leading content business and an advertising sales division called United Media, which combines top Pay TV channels in the region, including sports, news, entertainment, movies, and kids' programming. In 2016, the company established United Cloud, an in-house technology and software development center focused on developing digital services for the future. United Cloud collaborates with leading global technology companies to work on cutting-edge products.
Leadership Team
- Dragan Šolak: Founder and Chairman of the Advisory Board.
- Victoriya Boklag: Chief Executive Officer.
Dragan Šolak founded United Group in 2007, leading its growth into a major telecom and media provider in Southeast Europe. Victoriya Boklag, as CEO, oversees the company's strategic direction and operations, driving innovation and expansion.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics: The telecommunications and media industry in Southeast Europe is characterized by rapid technological advancements and increasing demand for integrated services. The market is competitive, with several key players striving to expand their service offerings and market share.
Competitor Analysis: Key competitors include Telekom Srbija, A1 Telekom Austria Group, and Deutsche Telekom. These companies focus on providing comprehensive telecommunications services, including mobile and fixed-line telephony, broadband internet, and television. Notable achievements among competitors include extensive network coverage, diverse content offerings, and strategic partnerships to enhance service delivery.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
United Group has engaged in significant collaborations to strengthen its market position and innovation capacity. In 2018, the company partnered with Fon Wireless to expand its Wi-Fi network, enabling regional customers to access more than 68 million Wi-Fi hotspots worldwide. This partnership enhances United Group's service offerings and customer experience.
Operational Insights
United Group's strategic considerations include maintaining a competitive edge through continuous investment in digital infrastructure and content development. The company's distinct competitive advantages lie in its comprehensive service offerings, technological innovation, and strong regional presence. By integrating telecommunications and media services, United Group provides a seamless experience for customers, differentiating itself from competitors.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
United Group's strategic roadmap focuses on further expanding its service offerings and market presence in Southeast Europe. Opportunities for growth include leveraging technological advancements to enhance service delivery, exploring new markets, and strengthening partnerships to drive innovation. The company's current strengths, including its comprehensive service portfolio and commitment to innovation, position it well to achieve future objectives.
Contact Information
- Website: united.group
- Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands
United Group's commitment to innovation, comprehensive service offerings, and strategic growth initiatives underscore its position as a leading telecom and media provider in Southeast Europe.
