Vodafone's battle for Mannesmann broke all records in the world of corporate takeovers. The £228bn combined company's share value is an indication of the sparkling growth prospects for the mobile phone sector. But the battle was also seen as a test case over whether German society would accept economic reform.
Vodafone clinches Mannesmann deal
The two firms agree a friendly merger after a bitter battle for control of the German group finally swings Vodafone's way.
Deal puts pressure on rivals
The merger wave
Europe's level playing field?
Giants who move markets
Mannesmann: Engineering into telecoms
Mannesmann's successful transformation from an engineering company to a telecoms firm is a sign of how rapidly Germany's industrial sector is restructuring.
Mannesmann profits boosted
Mannesmann steps up fight
Mannesmann fights back
Vodafone: Mobile phone giant
Vodafone has propelled itself into the lead in the worldwide mobile phone race, and in the process became the UK's largest company, with a global presence.
Chris Gent, Vodafone's smooth operator
World's largest takeover bid
Vodafone blow against Mannesmann
Vodafone, the UK's largest company
The mobile phone revolution
The rapid spread of mobile phones has led to a wave of mergers in the telecoms industry. A new generation of mobiles will allow full internet access.
Mobile phone sales surge
WAP: wireless window on the world
The mobile internet race
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