Private 5G networks, IoT and cloud technologies are transforming factories into intelligent, responsive ecosystems. Violeta Luca, CEO of Vodafone, explains how these innovations enable flexible production, predictive maintenance and deeper customer insights. In this interview she shares real world examples from Czech industry such as robots at Škoda Auto and the first 5G deployment at a nuclear power plant in Europe, and highlights the importance of bold leadership and support for SMEs on their digital transformation journey.This interview was conducted as part of a media partnership with the Digital Czech Republic conference.
How can telecommunications technologies contribute to the development of smart factories?
Telecommunications technologies — especially private 5G networks — are rapidly transforming traditional manufacturing into dynamic, data-driven smart factories. Unlike wired infrastructure, which limits flexibility in production line layout and the addition of new machinery, private 5G supports swift reconfiguration of equipment and processes. Its high-speed, low-latency connectivity ensures vast amounts of data can be transmitted in near real time, enabling rapid decision-making and operational adjustments on the factory floor.
In my view, I see three areas of positive impact: accelerating industry transformation, intelligent value chains enablement, and customer-centric solutions delivery.
Accelerating Industry Transformation: Manufacturers increasingly see advanced connectivity and the Internet of Things (IoT) as critical to long-term success. The ability to collect and analyse data remotely, securely, and at scale opens doors to operational efficiency and continuous innovation. By harnessing IoT devices — ranging from sensors on machinery to connected products in the field — companies capture more data than ever before, fuelling insights for strategic priorities such as supply chain optimization, product development, and smart manufacturing.
Enabling Intelligent Value Chains: Because IoT devices are now embedded across every step of the manufacturing value chain, manufacturers can monitor, track, and optimize processes in real time. With an integrated communications infrastructure in place, supply chain disruptions can be spotted and addressed sooner, product prototypes can move to market faster, and field service can become more predictive and efficient.
Delivering Customer-Centric Solutions: In addition to operational improvements, real-time IoT data creates a feedback loop that reveals how customers use and value products. Equipped with these insights, manufacturers can tailor offerings more precisely, respond to emerging trends more nimbly, and strengthen customer relationships through targeted services and personalized experiences.
Overall, telecommunications technologies — through advanced connectivity, automation, and IoT-enabled optimization — are the foundation that allows today’s manufacturers to become truly agile, future-proof organizations. By investing in these capabilities, they stand ready to seize the competitive advantages of a fully connected industrial era.
What specific solutions does Vodafone offer for manufacturing companies in the Czech Republic?
I have already mentioned a 5G mobile private network (MPN), which allows the digitization of entire production processes. An example is the deployment of MPN for Škoda Auto in Mladá Boleslav, where the multipurpose mobile robot by Škoda Tooling is just one example of what this technology unlocks. This ambitious project is all about easy to use, and easy to maintain, interconnected machines, which help people with repetitive work and their safety. At the same time offering great flexibility in the jobs that they can perform. Another example is the deployment of 5G MPN at the Temelín nuclear power plant, which is the first of its kind in Europe.
Vodafone Flexible Computing offers cloud services that allow companies to store and process large volumes of data. Cloud services provide flexibility and scalability, which is key for smart factories.
Software-managed enterprise networks (SD-WAN) enable efficient management and optimization of data flows within the corporate infrastructure. The Internet of Things and IoT solutions enable the interconnection of various devices and sensors, leading to optimized operations and increased efficiency. Energy Data Management enables the optimization of energy consumption, which leads to reduced costs and emissions.
Vodafone also provides solutions that protect company data and infrastructure from cyber-attacks. We also offer an AI partner, Microsoft 365 Copilot, which makes work easier, speeds up decision-making, and helps with the daily agenda.
How are 5G, IoT, and cloud technologies changing the way businesses manage their operations?
5G, IoT and cloud services enable companies to respond faster and more efficiently to changes in demand and production conditions. This allows them to optimize production and perform predictive maintenance on machines and equipment. This allows companies to better plan and manage their operations, leading to job and capacity savings.
Digital transformation is dramatically changing the way companies operate, and wireless technologies are the key to digital transformation, but they must be sufficiently reliable and secure. Mobile private networks are assumed to be essential for the implementation of smart industry not only in the field of manufacturing, but also in fields such as logistics and transportation, energy and utilities.
IoT’s impact is wide-ranging. It is used by almost every industry, including connected cars, medical equipment, trains, planes, delivery vehicles, energy distribution, solar panels, wind farms, manufacturing plants and electric vehicle chargers. It enables individuals to access services such as home security systems using their smartphone or enables businesses to monitor the condition and location of their products anywhere around the world.
Where do you see the biggest obstacles to the digitization of Czech industry?
Czech businesses are currently trailing behind many of their European peers in adopting digital solutions, which translates into missed opportunities and diminished competitiveness.
Over 20% of Czech entrepreneurs still do not perceive a clear need for digital tools, often because they fail to see the direct economic benefits or fear high costs and complexity. More than 20% of them do not feel the need for any digital solution.
Concerns about cybersecurity in the digital environment further dampen their willingness to invest in new technologies. Nonetheless, digital transformation is no longer optional. To support innovation in the Czech Republic, Vodafone partners with initiatives such as the IDC competition on digital innovation, where experts from over 30 countries assess top digital innovators. With the right guidance and resources, Czech companies can turn digital transformation into a competitive advantage
What is Vodafone’s role in supporting the digitization of small and medium-sized enterprises?
Vodafone is committed to supporting SMEs overcome the hurdles of digitalization by offering a wide portfolio of solutions. For example, our managed services go beyond merely supplying IT infrastructure: we also provide dedicated experts who continuously maintain, optimize, and tailor these solutions to each customer’s evolving needs.
Another example is our V-Hub portal – V-Hub portal, an online advisory platform designed specifically for entrepreneurs and SMEs. Through practical articles and expert tips, we cover digitalization strategies while also branching into key business topics such as productivity, security, and growth. Looking ahead, we plan to enhance the V-Hub with more personalized features to give users targeted inspiration and drive greater value for their businesses.
Source: editorial staff, Vodafone
