Some
factors to consider...
On balance
we believe these changes are a positive step towards
restoring consumer trust in non-geographic numbers
(e.g. 0870, 0845).
What’s
more we anticipate these pricing changes will lead
to an eventual increase in the
use of 0870 numbers.
Companies that currently use 0870
numbers should consider the following when deciding
what action to take:
Advantages
of the Pricing Change
- Future
proof – Once these changes
have taken place 0870 numbers are far less likely
to be affected by any future Ofcom changes.
- Cost
of calling – The changes
will significantly reduce the price of many calls
to 0870 numbers. Cheaper calls should lead to
more potential customers contacting you.
- Inclusive
minutes – From February
2008 calls to 0870 numbers will be included as
part of any inclusive call minutes or discount
schemes for geographic calls. This means that
callers can ring you for the price of a standard
call from a landline or from a mobile phone.
- Calling
from abroad – At present
there is no guarantee that people outside the
UK can dial your 0870 numbers. These changes will
make it more likely that your 0870 numbers will
work overseas.
- Lose
stigma - In recent years 0870
numbers have suffered from adverse publicity with
many people unhappy at having to pay 8 pence per
minute to ring their GP, Council or Utility Company.
These changes will restore trust in the 0870 number
range, making it a far more attractive option
for businesses.
Disadvantages of the Pricing
Change
- Increased
cost - Companies will have to
pay to receive calls. The cost is likely to be
between 1p and 2p per minute. However this cost
is still significantly cheaper than using a Freephone
number.
- Lose
rebate - The pricing
changes will end revenue sharing on 0870 numbers.
To many companies using 0870 numbers, earning
money back from their calls was not the main reason
they took the number. However, companies that
wish to continue receiving a rebate will need
to consider moving to the 0844/0871 number range(s).
If your organisation currently
uses 0870 numbers and you’re unsure what to
do, call us for a Free no-obligation chat on 0800
505 3210*.
*Lines are open 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri.
Or visit our main group
website at:
www.4telgroup.com
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