Lebara Mobile telecommunications services

Lebara is a global telecommunications company that operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO). Founded in 2001 in the United Kingdom by Leon Rasiah, Ratheesan Yoganathan, and Baskaran Kandiah, the brand's name was famously derived from the first two letters of each founder's name. Initially, it revolutionized the market by providing affordable international calling cards for migrant communities across Europe.

Rather than owning physical infrastructure, Lebara leases network priority from established giants like Vodafone in the UK and Germany, or SFR in France. This business model allows them to offer highly competitive rates for SIM-only plans and international calls. In August 2024, the brand underwent a significant ownership change when Waterland Private Equity acquired Lebara Group B.V., providing the strategic backing to further its expansion as a value-driven challenger in the European mobile market. While the brand is headquartered in London, its physical products—such as SIM cards—are produced in multiple locations worldwide depending on regional distribution channels.