DISH Network to acquire MVNO Republic Wireless

DISH Network Corp. plans to acquire Republic Wireless, a mobile virtual network operator using the T-Mobile US Inc. network, according to a March 8 news release.

Financial terms of the deal were undisclosed.

Upon closing, DISH will assume about 200,000 customer relationships, the Republic Wireless brand and its other supporting assets.

Meanwhile, Republic Wireless' Relay division will continue operating as a stand-alone company and will become a wholesale customer of DISH's 5G network. Rob Currie, DISH senior vice president of Ting Mobile and MVNO platforms, is expected to head Republic Wireless upon closing.

The transaction, expected to close in the second quarter of 2021, remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.