SFR Overview and Key Information

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SFR is a French telecommunications company that operates in several countries, including France, Belgium, and Poland. It was founded in 1988 and has since become one of the largest telecommunications operators in Europe.

SFR offers a range of services, including fixed and mobile telephony, internet, and television. Its network infrastructure is extensive, with over 50,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cables.

SFR's customer base is diverse, with over 20 million subscribers across its various markets. The company has a strong presence in the French market, where it is one of the leading telecommunications operators.

See what others are reading: French Data Network

Company History

SFR was founded in 1987 by its then-parent company Compagnie Générale des Eaux (CGE) to offer a 1G mobile phone service using the modified Nordic telecommunications standard NMT-F.

In 1996, CGE spun off SFR and its other telecommunications activities into a new holding company called SFR-Cegetel, which also became a competing provider of fixed-line telecommunication services.

SFR became a major partner network of Vodafone in France, and Vodafone held a 44% share in SFR until April 2011.

Origins

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SFR was founded in 1987, marking the beginning of its journey as a mobile network operator.

The company was created by its then-parent company Compagnie Générale des Eaux (CGE) to offer a 1G mobile phone service using the modified Nordic telecommunications standard NMT-F.

This move allowed SFR to compete with France Télécom's Radiocom 2000 network, which was the incumbent telephony operator at the time.

SFR became the second French mobile network operator to launch 2G GMS services on November 15, 1992.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Türk Telekom (mobile Operator Division)

Cegetel (1996-2005), Then (2005-2014)

In 1996, CGE spun off SFR and its other telecommunications activities into a new holding company called SFR-Cegetel.

SFR-Cegetel also became a competing provider of fixed-line telecommunication services.

As part of AOL's European operations, SFR-Cegetel was a shareholder of the French operations of America Online.

Later, SFR-Cegetel was renamed just Cegetel.

Vodafone had a significant stake in SFR, holding a 44% share until April 2011.

In that year, Vodafone sold its entire share back to SFR's founding parent company Vivendi.

SFR went on to become a major partner network of Vodafone in France.

Consider reading: Neuf Cegetel

Numericable Group (2014–2016)

Credit: youtube.com, Vivendi choisit Numericable - Le 05/04/2014 à 16h00

In 2014, Vivendi announced plans to sell its SFR division, sparking a bidding war with Altice/Numericable, Bouygues, and Iliad.

The deal ultimately went to Altice/Numericable, with Arnaud Montebourg, the French Minister for Industrial Renewal, confidently stating that the Numericable/SFR deal was a certainty.

SFR had a significant lead with 28.6 million subscribers compared to Numericable's 1.7 million, leading Patrick Drahi to announce that SFR would replace Numericable.

In 2015, Numericable Outremer was rebranded as SFR Caraïbe, marking the beginning of the end for the Numericable brand.

By 2016, Numericable was fully absorbed into the SFR brand, with the launch of new packages and the SVOD service Zive in Belgium and Luxembourg.

Expand your knowledge: Numericable

Group (2016–2018)

In April 2016, the Numericable-SFR Group was renamed "SFR Group" and reorganized into three divisions: SFR Média and SFR Publicité, and SFR Télécom.

The new SFR Group had a clear vision for its future, with Alain Weill heading the media and advertising sales parts, and Michel Paulin steering the telecoms branch.

Worth a look: MTN Group

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SFR acquired 49% of NextRadioTV and the activities of Altice Media Group France from Altice for around 600 million euros, expanding its media and advertising presence.

The acquisition included the BFM and RMC channels, as well as the French press titles Libération and L'Express.

In December 2016, Altice sold SFR Belux to Telenet, marking a significant change in the group's European operations.

Here's a brief overview of the key players involved in the SFR Group's reorganization:

  • Alain Weill: Head of SFR Média and SFR Publicité
  • Michel Paulin: Head of SFR Télécom
  • Michel Combes: Chairman of SFR Group
  • Patrick Drahi: Main shareholder of Altice France and the Altice Group

In January 2017, SFR announced its intention to acquire 100% of the News Participations and NextRadioTV, a move that would solidify its position in the media industry.

Altice (2018–)

Altice began its acquisition spree in 2018, buying Suddenlink Communications from a private equity firm for $9.1 billion.

In 2018, Altice acquired Suddenlink Communications for $9.1 billion.

Here's an interesting read: Altice Portugal

Slogans

SFR has had a long history of catchy slogans that reflect the company's values and mission. The most recent slogan, "Soyez vous" or "Be you", was used from 2022 until October 18, 2022.

Telecommunication Tower on City Hill
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The company's slogans have varied over the years, with some being more focused on freedom and others on innovation. For example, the slogan "Vous n'avez pas fini d'être LIBRE" or "You haven't finished being FREE" was used from 1999 to 2000.

Here's a list of some of the most notable slogans used by SFR:

  • "Parce qu'un abonné SFR n'est pas qu'un simple numéro" (1987-1990)
  • "Ligne SFR, Le téléphone liberté" (1990-1994)
  • "SFR, Le monde sans fil est à vous" (1994-1996)
  • "Sans fil SFR, le monde est à vous" (1996-1999)
  • "Vous n'avez pas fini d'être LIBRE" (1999-2000)
  • "SFR, le meilleur réseau" (2000-2001)
  • "Vous serez toujours plus qu'un simple numéro" (2001-2003)
  • "Plus de plaisir" (2003-2004)
  • "Parlons mieux, parlons mobile" (2004-2007)
  • "Vivons mobile" (2007-2008)
  • "SFR, et le monde est à vous" (2008-2010)
  • "Carrément vous" (2010-2014)
  • "Smart comme vous" (2014-2015)
  • "SFR, et tout s'accélère" (2015-2016)
  • "#NewSFR" (2016-2017)
  • "Pour vous, SFR change" (2017)
  • "SFR, en chemin vers le meilleur" (2017-2018)
  • "SFR, enjoy" (2018)

Sports and Entertainment

SFR Sport is a package of French TV channels from the SFR Group devoted to sports.

It's available for SFR, Canal+, My.T, and OTT subscribers. The channels include RMC Sport 1, RMC Sport 2, RMC Sport 3, RMC Sport 4, and RMC Sport 1UHD.

In 2016, Altice acquired the rights to many sports competitions, including the Premier League, Liga NOS, and Champions League, to form the SFR Sport bouquet.

Sport

French TV channels have a lot to offer when it comes to sports. RMC Sport, formerly known as SFR Sport, is a package of channels dedicated to sports.

Credit: youtube.com, Welcome to Sport Mattazz - Where Sports and Entertainment Collide! #soccer #sports

The SFR Sport bouquet was formed in 2016 after Altice acquired the rights to many sports competitions, including the Premier League and Liga NOS.

RMC Sport offers a range of channels, including RMC Sport 1, RMC Sport 2, RMC Sport 3, RMC Sport 4, and RMC Sport 1UHD.

Subscribers to SFR, Canal+, My.T, and OTT can access these channels.

The SFR Sport bouquet was rebranded as RMC Sport on July 3, 2018.

Red

Red is a brand that's been around since 2011, launched as SFR's online-only, lower cost flanker brand in preparation for the launch of Free Mobile the following year.

It's worth noting that Altice, the parent company of SFR, has a long history dating back to 1987, when it was first established.

Here are some key facts about Altice and its subsidiaries, including SFR and Red:

  • Altice is a multinational company headquartered in France.
  • Altice France is a subsidiary of Altice, operating in the telecommunications industry.
  • Red by SFR is a lower cost flanker brand, launched online in 2011.

In 2014, Altice was involved in a significant merger and acquisition, and has also filed for Chapter 15 bankruptcy in the past.

Été Mouvementé Pour L'Opérateur

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SFR, the French telecom operator, had a tumultuous summer. They've been dealing with a plan of salvation, which was validated by the tribunal des activités économiques on August 4th.

The plan aims to help SFR, which has around 26 million clients in France, navigate a difficult period. This is significant, as SFR's parent company, Altice France, is counting on finalizing the plan by October 1st.

SFR's Comité économique et social attempted to have the validation suspended, but they were unable to do so.

Take a look at this: Telecommunications in France

What SFR Does

SFR is one of France's leading telecommunications operators. It provides a wide range of services including mobile and fixed-line telephony. SFR also offers high-speed internet access through fiber and ADSL.

The company offers television services to residential customers and businesses. It's also a significant player in the media landscape. SFR is heavily invested in expanding its fiber optic network. This includes FTTH/FTTB to enhance connectivity and digital experiences.

SFR is advancing 5G technology across France. This will further enhance the digital experiences of its users.

Company Information

Credit: youtube.com, SFR Review: Honest User Experience and Website Features Breakdown

SFR, also known as Société Française du Radiotéléphone, is a French telecommunications company. It was founded in 1987.

SFR is a subsidiary of the Orange Group, a multinational telecommunications corporation. SFR provides a range of services including mobile and fixed telephony, internet, and television.

HQ Function

The headquarters of SFR serves as the central hub for its strategic direction, corporate management, administrative functions, and technological innovation for its telecommunications and media activities in France.

This central hub is crucial for making key decisions and driving innovation, ensuring that SFR stays ahead in the competitive telecommunications market.

SFR's HQ is also a symbol of its integration within the broader Altice group, showcasing its ambition as a convergent leader in French telecommunications, media, and content.

At the heart of the Altice Campus headquarters is a nerve center for strategic operations and group synergy, facilitating collaboration and coordination across different departments and teams.

A unique perspective: Bitė Group

Altice Parent Gets 350 Million Euro Loan

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Altice France, the parent company of SFR, has obtained a new loan amounting to 350 million euros from BNP Paribas.

This financing is intended to address upcoming debt maturities.

The loan will also support the company's operational financing needs as it continues efforts to manage its significant debt load.

The loan was secured from BNP Paribas, a well-established financial institution.

Annual Revenue

SFR's annual revenue was $12.5 billion in 2025.

The company's financial performance is a testament to its success in the market.

SFR's annual revenue was a significant $12.5 billion in 2025.

This impressive figure reflects the company's strong presence and growth in the industry.

SFR's annual revenue was $12.5 billion in 2025.

Where Is Based?

SFR is based in Paris, Ile-de-France.

SIC Code Definition

The SIC code is a system used to categorize businesses by their industry or activity. It's a crucial piece of information for understanding a company's identity.

The SIC code for SFR is 33 and 335. This classification helps identify the company's primary business activity.

The SIC code system is widely used in the United States and Canada, but it's being phased out in favor of the NAICS code.

Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Credit: youtube.com, Couverture mobile de la Tour Incity pour SFR

SFR has a significant presence in Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, with a business address at SFR Business, Le Polynôme, 29 Rue Maurice Flandin, 69003 Lyon.

This location allows SFR to provide localized expertise and support for its diverse business clientele in the region.

SFR's operations in Lyon are part of its efforts to strengthen its market presence and customer service capabilities in one of France's major economic regions.

Investors and Leadership

SFR has been backed by several prominent investors over the years.

One of these investors is Altice France, the parent company of SFR.

Mathieu Coq was appointed as the CEO of SFR, reflecting ongoing strategic realignments within the Altice group.

Recent Leadership Changes

SFR has recently undergone significant leadership changes, reflecting its parent company Altice France's strategic realignments.

Mathieu Coq has been appointed as the CEO of SFR, marking a notable shift in leadership.

These changes are part of Altice's efforts to improve operational performance and reduce debt.

Jérémie Suire serves as the CPO, or Chief Procurement and Supply Chain Officer, of SFR.

Work Culture

Credit: youtube.com, How Leadership Influences Organizational Culture

The work culture at SFR is dynamic and results-oriented, which is fitting for a company operating in the fast-paced telecommunications and media sectors.

This approach emphasizes innovation, customer-centricity, and agility in adapting to market changes, which is essential for staying competitive in such a rapidly evolving industry.

The company's focus on results-oriented work culture suggests that employees are encouraged to think critically and come up with creative solutions to problems.

This emphasis on innovation and customer-centricity is likely to lead to a work environment that is engaging and challenging for employees, which can help to retain top talent and drive business success.

The fast-paced nature of the telecommunications and media sectors means that SFR's work culture is likely to be highly dynamic and responsive to changing market conditions.

Who's Investing in?

SFR has been backed by several prominent investors over the years, including prominent investors such as those who have invested in SFR.

One of these investors is a prominent investor who has been mentioned in the article.

Technology and Infrastructure

Credit: youtube.com, DWS15 - Eric DENOYER, Numericable-SFR - Digital infrastructure

SFR uses a tech stack that can be discovered with the help of Highperformr, which reveals the technologies powering target accounts.

Highperformr helps sales, marketing, and GTM teams prioritize smarter and close faster by providing insights into the tools used by SFR.

The tools used by SFR can be a valuable resource for teams looking to optimize their own tech stack and improve their sales and marketing efforts.

Tech Stack Used

SFR uses Highperformr to reveal the technologies powering their target accounts.

Highperformr helps sales, marketing, and GTM teams prioritize smarter and close faster by discovering the tools used by their target accounts.

The tech stack used by SFR is revealed through Highperformr, which is a powerful tool for uncovering the technologies powering target accounts.

Considers Selling Data Centers and Submarine Cables

SFR is reportedly exploring options to sell its data center business and submarine cable assets. This move is part of a broader strategy by Altice to divest non-core assets and reduce its substantial debt.

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SFR is part of the Altice group, which is taking steps to streamline its operations. Altice is reportedly considering selling off assets that are not essential to its core business.

The sale of SFR's data center business and submarine cable assets is seen as a way to reduce debt and focus on core operations.

Launches Wi-Fi 6 Router for Better Home Internet

SFR has launched a new Wi-Fi 6 router to enhance home internet experience.

The SFR Box 8X is equipped with Wi-Fi 6 technology, providing faster speeds and improved coverage.

This new offering aims to provide customers with a more stable internet connection for multiple devices within the home.

Customers can expect improved performance, especially in homes with many connected devices.

Quick Facts

SFR is a mobile network operator with a rich history, founded in 1987.

It's headquartered in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France, a location that's likely to be familiar to many French residents.

SFR is the second-largest French mobile network operator, making it a significant player in the market.

Related reading: Network Service Provider

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The company has a substantial subscriber base, with over 26 million customers relying on its services.

SFR offers a range of mobile plans, including prepaid, postpaid, and corporate options, making it a versatile choice for different types of users.

Here are some key facts about SFR's mobile plans:

  • Prepaid, postpaid, and corporate plans available
  • Over 26 million subscribers
  • Subsidiary of Altice France

Top Employees and Management

SFR's top employees are highly skilled and experienced, with many having worked for the company for over 10 years. This level of stability and continuity is a key factor in the company's success.

SFR's management team is led by Christophe Large, who has been with the company since its inception. As CEO, he has been instrumental in driving the company's growth and expansion.

The company's employees are highly motivated, with many holding advanced degrees and certifications in their fields. This expertise is a major asset to the company, allowing it to deliver high-quality services to its customers.

SFR's management style is characterized by a strong focus on innovation and customer satisfaction. The company's leadership encourages a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement, which has helped it stay ahead of the competition.

SFR's employees are also known for their commitment to community service, with many participating in volunteer programs and charitable initiatives. This commitment to giving back is a testament to the company's values and mission.

SIM and eSIM Services

Credit: youtube.com, SFR Review: My Honest User Experience with This Mobile Carrier (2025 Update)

SFR offers a range of SIM and eSIM services for tourists and travelers visiting France. For tourists, the best SFR SIM card option is the SFR Travel SIM, which costs around $32 and offers 60GB of data, 30 days of validity, and unlimited calling and texting in Europe and the DOM, with up to 2.5 hours of calls from France to the world.

If you're looking for a more convenient option, SFR eSIM is a great choice. You can purchase an eSIM data plan from various places, including the SFR website and other online retailers. To activate your eSIM, you'll need to install the SFR app on your phone, sign up for an account, and verify a French payment method.

Here are some of the main pros and cons of using a prepaid SIM card, eSIM, and roaming:

In general, a prepaid SIM or eSIM is the most cost-effective option for moderate to long-term usage. To top-up your eSIM, you can send your 10-digit refill code to 952, or call 950 for free from your SFR phone and from within France and follow the instructions.

Call & SMS Rates

A towering red and white telecommunications structure reaching into a cloudy sky, highlighting modern technology.
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If you're an SFR subscriber in France, you can expect to pay around €0.35-0.50 per minute for calls to other French mobiles.

Calls to French landlines are a bit cheaper, costing between €0.15-0.30 per minute.

International calls can be pricey, ranging from €0.50-1 per minute.

SMS rates within France are relatively low, at €0.10-0.15 per message.

If you're sending SMS internationally, be prepared to pay a bit more, around €0.15-0.30 per message.

Data rates are also worth considering, with prices ranging from €0.10-0.30 per megabyte.

Here's a quick breakdown of SFR's call and SMS rates:

Note that these rates are for prepaid customers, so postpaid customers may have different rates.

2.1 Coverage

SFR has the second-best overall mobile network coverage in France, behind Orange. This is according to Opensignal's November 2023 Report, which gave SFR a score of 8.7 points out of 10 for Coverage Experience.

SFR provides coverage in most places where users live, work, and travel within France. This means you can expect a reliable mobile connection in many areas, but it's worth noting that SFR's 5G coverage is more limited compared to some of its competitors.

Person Looking at a Map
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SFR scores 98.1% for availability, which is statistically tied with Bouygues and Orange. This means SFR users had a mobile connection over 98% of the time on average.

Here are the key points about SFR's coverage in France:

  • SFR takes second place in the Coverage Experience award with a score of 8.7 points out of 10.
  • For 5G Coverage Experience, SFR places third with a score of 3.0 points out of 10.
  • SFR scores 98.1% for availability, tying with Bouygues and Orange.
  • SFR wins the 5G availability award with a score of 18.2%.

Traveler Connectivity Options

If you're planning a trip to France, staying connected is a must. You have several options for staying connected while abroad.

SFR offers a range of connectivity options for travelers visiting France, including prepaid SIM cards, eSIMs, roaming, and Pocket WiFi.

Prepaid SIM cards are widely available and affordable, but require a compatible phone and can be bulky. eSIMs, on the other hand, are convenient and offer remote activation, but may not be supported by all phones.

Roaming can be expensive and data capped or limited, unless you have international roaming included in your existing plan. Pocket WiFi is a great option if you need to share internet across devices, but data limits make it more costly than SIM options overall.

Hands holding a smartphone and powerbank connected by cable, outdoors setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Hands holding a smartphone and powerbank connected by cable, outdoors setting.

Here are the main connectivity options provided by SFR for travelers visiting France:

In general, a prepaid SIM or eSIM is the most cost-effective option for moderate to long-term usage.

Été Mouvementé Pour L'Opérateur

SFR, the French telecom operator, had a turbulent summer. The operator didn't get a break from its busy schedule, with over 26 million clients in France.

The Comité économique et social de SFR tried to suspend the validation of the plan de sauvegarde, which was pronounced by the tribunal des activités économiques on August 4th.

SFR filed a request for an arrêt de l'exécution provisoire du jugement with the first president of the Cour d'appel, and got an audience scheduled for September 4th.

The judgment won't touch on the plan's validity, so the plan de sauvegarde remains unchanged.

Walter Brekke

Lead Writer

Walter Brekke is a seasoned writer with a passion for creating informative and engaging content. With a strong background in technology, Walter has established himself as a go-to expert in the field of cloud storage and collaboration. His articles have been widely read and respected, providing valuable insights and solutions to readers.

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