Mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) buy network capacity from a mobile network operator (MNO) to be able to provide a full portfolio of mobile services for their own subscribers. This paper provides insight into different types of MVNO and their possible business strategies. A strategy framework for classifying MVNO strategies is developed based on in-depth interviews of Finnish operators. As a case study, the developed framework is then applied to the Finnish MVNO market. The analysis shows that real MVNOs can be mapped to the framework although some MVNOs exercise multiple strategies at the same time. It is observed that most Finnish MVNOs have adopted the short-term strategy of competing with price rather than services. In addition, several small MVNOs show evidence of longer-term exit strategies based on a targeted merger with a MNO or a bigger MVNO.
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