Real Wireless is pleased to be actively involved in the Cambridge Wireless Mobile Networks Special Interest Group’s inaugural event ‘Shared RAN – Why Not?’ in Reading on 1 May 2025. At this half day event, we will hear from the following industry experts, including Real Wireless’ CEO, Simon Fletcher:
John Bretherick, Director of Business Development, Fujitsu Network Communications
Mike Ferris, Chief Network Architect, Dense Air
Simon Fletcher, Chief Executive Officer, Real Wireless
Vicky Messer, VP of Product Management, RANsemi
Elizabeth Rumsey, Senior Global Product Manager, Vodafone
Alex Smith, VP Product Management, Antevia Networks
Real Wireless’ head of techno-economic analysis, Julie Bradford, will also be chairing the first half of the afternoon.
Traditional Radio Access Network (RAN) deployments in the UK are both costly and inefficient due to limited vendor diversity and restrictions on site-sharing, leading to high CapEx and OpEx. Local objections to new site developments further complicate network expansion, while recent changes in site rental regulations have unintentionally increased costs and slowed deployment. With mobile traffic growth continuing and MNOs facing financial and logistical challenges, a shift towards a more sustainable, multi-vendor, and Neutral Host Network (NHN) model is needed. This approach leverages shared infrastructure, commercial off-the-shelf servers, and lower-power equipment to reduce costs and environmental impact. While policy support and commercial deployments of NHNs are growing, the next step is adopting RAN-as-a-Service (aaS), which, despite reducing MNO control, maximises resource sharing and accelerates deployment. This event explores the progress, innovations, and necessary steps for wider MNO adoption of aaS to meet sustainability commitments.
