Wired Telecommunications Services in France - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2025-2029)

Wired Telecommunications Services in France industry analysis

The French telecommunications industry has seen significant evolution over the past decade, marked by substantial advancements in fibre optic technology and changes in consumer behaviour. Fibre optics have been pivotal, offering higher speeds and better reliability than copper networks, essential for supporting advanced digital services and technologies like 5G and IoT. Major players, including Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom and Free, have spearheaded the expansion of fibre networks under the France Très Haut Débit plan. However, traditional fixed-line telephony and cable TV have declined due to competition from mobile and internet-based services, prompting providers to adapt to bundled offerings. Over the five years through 2025, Wired Telecommunication Services’ revenue is expected to climb at a compound annual rate of 1.1 % to €43.6 billion, with revenue expected to swell by 0.2 % in 2025.
In mid-2024, France's telecommunications sector reached a crucial milestone, with fibre optic coverage becoming available to 89% of households in metropolitan areas , according to Arcep. Despite this achievement, the challenge remains to connect the remaining 5.1 million households, particularly in less densely populated regions like Dordogne and Ardèche. Intense competition from MVNOs and OTT content providers is reshaping the market, pressuring traditional services as consumers seek flexible, cost-effective communication and entertainment options. Telecom operators are responding by diversifying their bundled service packages and integrating telephony, internet and TV services to maintain and grow their customer base amid this evolving landscape.
Over the five years through 2030, revenue is expected to swell at a compound annual rate of 1.2% to €46.3 billion. Going forward, France’s telecommunications industry must adapt to the changing preferences of younger consumers who favour innovative and flexible services. The ongoing growth in wireless technologies, VoIP and OTT services presents both challenges and opportunities. Telecom companies may need to expand their offerings to include personalised digital solutions that cater to the tech-savvy consumer's lifestyle. To remain competitive, wired telecommunication services providers will likely focus on tailored solutions for enterprise clients, leveraging fibre optic technology to support industries like healthcare and manufacturing with superfast internet access.

Trends and Insights

• Investments in fibre optic technology have supported revenue. Wired telecommunications carriers have increasingly invested in fibre optic infrastructure and networks to meet the ever-growing demand for faster and more reliable internet connections.
• PSTNs have already been switched off in some countries. Despite PSTNs being the largest service segment, many countries in Europe are phasing out PSTNs in favour of an internet-based network.
• Larger carriers leverage economies of scale. Larger firms with greater resources are able to invest heavily in their services, helping to gain customers seeking the latest technologies and services.