Verizon Business has taken a significant step in the UK, transforming industrial areas into digital highways for manufacturing and logistics companies. Its latest partnership with Thames Freeport marks an important milestone in its mission to expand 5G infrastructure globally.
The company anticipates impressive growth, with a projected increase of 200% in revenue and 100% in sales of private 5G services by the end of 2025. This growth is part of a broader strategy that involves a strategic partnership with Nokia and leveraging liberalized spectrum regulations to achieve international success.
The new agreement with Thames Freeport covers several key locations along the UK’s A13 corridor, including the Port of Tilbury, DP World London Gateway, and Ford’s Dagenham plant. This deployment is expected to utilize private-5G technology to support AI and IoT applications, embracing the full potential of Industry 4.0.
Jennifer Artley, leading 5G acceleration at Verizon Business, emphasized the ambitious vision for the new network. She noted the project’s potential impact on both the port tenants and the local community.
The initial applications for the new infrastructure, set for deployment in late 2025, will include advanced communications, cameras, sensors, and AI-driven machine automation. These technologies aim to enhance worker safety and operational efficiency.
While standard in some respects, these applications demonstrate the project’s readiness for immediate deployment. Artley explained that Thames Freeport has conducted considerable planning to identify prospective use cases. This preparation allows for a swift transition from network rollout to active utilization.
Beyond technological advancements, the project highlights Verizon Business’s competitive edge, as the company continues to outmaneuver local rivals. Artley shared impressive growth figures, with the business experiencing a 350% increase in 2024 over 2023 and expecting a further 200% rise in 2025. She highlighted customer enthusiasm as a key driver, with many expanding across multiple sites.
Customers, particularly in the manufacturing sector, are reportedly sharing success stories internally, fostering a culture of innovation and adoption of private-5G networks. Additionally, the company is transitioning outdated systems to new neutral-host 5G setups at well-known hospitals and healthcare facilities.