WARSAW: Emitel, a Polish telecommunications infrastructure company, has signed a long-term agreement with mobile network operator Orange Polska to expand mobile network coverage in Poland, the companies announced.
Under the deal, Emitel will construct hundreds of new telecommunications towers for Orange over the next few years under a built-to-suit model. Orange, as the anchor tenant, will pay a recurring fee for each site under a long-term contract. Emitel will also have the opportunity to lease additional space on each tower to other mobile operators.
The capital expenditure for the project is expected to be funded by Emitel’s free cash flow. Emitel, which operated 762 communications towers as of Dec. 31, 2024, has seen rapid expansion since its acquisition by Cordiant Digital Infrastructure in 2022, increasing its tower portfolio by 27% and revenue by 37%. The company recorded 12.1% year-on-year revenue growth for telecommunications site hosting in the first nine months of 2024.
The agreement with Orange is expected to further boost Emitel’s growth, allowing it to expand its tower portfolio to more than 1,000 sites across Poland. The demand for digital infrastructure in the country has surged, driven by strong economic growth and increased government investment. Poland’s GDP grew 2.9% in 2024, well above the EU average of 0.9%, with forecasts predicting continued expansion.
“We are pleased that Orange Polska has entrusted us with this significant infrastructure project,” said Emitel CEO Maciej Pilipczuk. “Our experience in telecommunications infrastructure enables us to support the expansion of Poland’s mobile network and meet growing user needs.”
Steven Marshall, co-founder of Cordiant Digital Infrastructure, called the agreement “a key win” for Emitel. “This project will play an essential role in expanding Poland’s 5G network while delivering incremental revenues for Emitel,” he said. “It validates our Buy, Build & Grow model and creates real value for shareholders.”