- Xantaro to supply cabinet-as-a-service for Freedom Fibre’s Shropshire build.
- Modular cabinets reduce deployment time and capex.
What happened: Cabinet-as-a-service to expedite rollout
On 14 April 2025, Xantaro announced it will provide its cabinet-as-a-service solution to support Freedom Fibre’s full‑fibre network rollout across Shropshire. Under the agreement, Xantaro will supply pre‑configured, modular cabinet units at key locations to house active equipment, reducing the need for on‑site assembly and cutting deployment times. Freedom Fibre, a UK regional broadband provider, aims to deliver gigabit‑capable services to rural and urban areas in Shropshire, improving connectivity for homes and businesses. The cabinet-as-a-service model enables Freedom Fibre to scale its fibre network rapidly without capital expenditure on traditional cabinets. Xantaro will manage the cabinets remotely, ensuring power, cooling and security requirements are met.
The service covers installation, monitoring and maintenance, with a pay‑as‑you‑grow pricing structure. Freedom Fibre’s Shropshire project forms part of its wider expansion strategy, which targets 100,000 premises by the end of 2026. The deal is funded partly by government grants and private investment. The two firms will collaborate on site surveys and logistics to meet planned build milestones. Details appear on the official Xantaro and Freedom Fibre websites.
Also read: Xantaro backs Wildanet’s fibre rollout in Cornwall
Also read: Top tech news today: 10 April, 2025
Why it’s important
The partnership between Xantaro and Freedom Fibre demonstrates a shift in how regional broadband providers deploy full‑fibre infrastructure. By using a cabinet-as-a-service approach, Freedom Fibre can avoid upfront capital costs and accelerate network builds in Shropshire. This model supports agile scaling, allowing operators to add cabinets as demand grows. Remote management of equipment reduces operational overhead and improves service reliability through proactive monitoring. The deal also highlights the role of modular infrastructure in meeting government targets for nationwide gigabit connectivity.
As UK policy emphasises full‑fibre rollouts, flexible solutions like those offered by Xantaro may become industry standard. Other providers may adopt similar models to speed deployment and manage costs. For local communities in Shropshire, faster access to gigabit services can support digital inclusion, economic development and smart city applications. It may also influence policy discussions on network funding models and public–private partnerships.
