Versatel adopts 1&1 moniker

German fixed network operator Versatel, which focuses on the business and corporate sectors, has rebranded its operations under the ‘1&1 Versatel’ brand name to better reflect its ownership by United Internet Group. In October 2014 United Internet Group, which provides fixed and mobile services in Germany as 1&1, acquired a 74.9% stake in Versatel from Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co (KKR), increasing its ownership in the infrastructure-based service provider to 100%. According to Versatel, the rebranding to 1&1 Versatel reflects its new ownership and marks the start of a more intensive cooperation between the two companies. Versatel operates the country’s second largest fibre-optic network, which spans 41,000km and is present in 250 cities.