- VMware ended the VMware Advantage Partner Program at the end of January 2026
- Hundreds of European CSPs will lose their ability to resell VMware software
- CISPE and other critics warn of higher prices and reduced sovereignty
Broadcom has ended the Advantage Partner Program for VMware Cloud Service Providers (VCSPs), confirming that it will not renew partner contracts effective January 26, 2026, meaning that only select partners will be able to participate, leading to a smaller choice of providers for customers.
The change is set to affect hundreds of European cloud service providers, each with their own loyal customer base, and understandably they are not happy.
Broadcom has framed the change as one that meets “evolving customer requirements” and notes the increased adoption of VMware Cloud Foundation.
CISPE has already criticized Broadcom’s takeover of VMware and the subsequent changes that have been made – in December 2025, the European group of cloud providers accused the European Commission of not properly assessing the risks associated with Broadcom’s acquisition.
“By rubber-stamping the deal, Brussels gave Broadcom a blank check to raise prices, lock in and squeeze customers,” wrote Secretary General Francisco Mingorence.
Kristian Liivak, CTO of a VCSP partner WaveCom, accused the “bulldozer called Broadcom” of “finally rolling[ing] over the remaining EU cloud service providers, terminating almost all VMware partner contracts” (via The register). WaveCom joined CISPE a few days ago, tying membership to European cloud sovereignty and not Broadcom’s VMware takeover.
Liivak also noted that there are only 19 VSCPs left in the US, and the same consolidation appears to be happening across Europe right now.
Critics, including CISPE, warn that such market consolidation could ultimately lead to reduced competition and therefore higher prices for customers, but also reduced data sovereignty for European companies.
While Broadcom has not commented on this specific issue, it has previously claimed that ongoing changes are helping it deliver greater value and a more streamlined experience. Company leaders, including CEO Hock Tan, are well aware of the continued dissatisfaction and mistrust.
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