The UK is getting ready for a big change: by 2027, all landline networks will be turned off and replaced with digital phone systems that use internet-based technology. Some homes and businesses may see this as a problem, but businesses have a real chance to benefit from the change.
The end of landlines isn’t just about getting rid of old infrastructure; it’s also about opening up new ways to grow, work more efficiently and come up with new ideas.
Lauren Davies of VoIP company bOnline comments: “The Landline Switch-Off may be somewhat of an awkward switchover for some businesses, but for the most part, it is one of if not the biggest upgrade to UK telecommunications infrastructure since the Industrial Revolution and as such, there are some phenomenal opportunities to be had and realised and the businesses who are ahead of this will benefit far more than those who are not.”
Why Should The Landline Switch-Off Be Seen As An Opportunity For Businesses?
The end of landlines in 2027 is one of the biggest changes in the history of UK telecommunications. People shouldn’t see it as a problem; they should see it as a chance. Companies can take advantage of this change to offer new services, enter new markets, cut costs and welcome new ideas.
Companies that adapt early will do well in a fully digital future, whether that means installing VoIP, reselling telecom services, providing IT support or creating digital communication platforms.
Challenges To Consider In The Landline Stitch-Off
Of course, every chance comes with problems. Some businesses, especially those in rural areas with slower broadband, may have trouble making the switch. Some people will have to spend money on training their workers and getting new hardware. As communication moves entirely online, cybersecurity also becomes a very important issue.
But if businesses plan carefully, they can not only get through these problems, but also use them to their advantage.
5 Opportunities Businesses Can Seize
The switch-off is a big change that may seem daunting, but it can also be an opportunity for businesses. Below are 5 ways businesses can monetise the landline switch-off.
Offering VoIP Services to Customers
The switch-off of landlines is basically a big move to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems. This makes a big market for companies that work in telecom, IT or technology. Millions of homes and businesses will have to switch from landlines to VoIP services. This means that:
- VoIP can be bundled with broadband services by internet service providers
- Tech resellers can sell VoIP systems with hardware like routers and headsets
- Consultants and installers can help small businesses and older customers set up and use new technology, which can be hard for them to do on their own
- Companies that market themselves as VoIP experts can build trust and long-term relationships
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Telecom Reselling Opportunities
The phase-out gives telecom resellers a huge opportunity. Smaller companies don’t have to compete with big telecom companies directly. Instead, they can work with them to offer digital phone services under their own name. Resellers can offer specialised solutions like:
- Tailored business packages with advanced features like call recording, video conferencing and analytics
- Services that are specific to a field, like VoIP for healthcare or education
- White-label solutions let businesses rebrand and sell telecom products as part of a bigger IT package
- Resellers can find profitable niches in a market that is changing quickly by taking advantage of the growing demand.
Growth for IT and Networking Businesses
Businesses will need to use the internet more and more to talk to each other as phone services go all-digital. This makes IT and networking companies in high demand to help ensure:
- Strong infrastructure: Improving Wi-Fi, routers and cables
- Cybersecurity: Keeping VoIP services safe from hackers and people who want to listen in on calls
- Ongoing support: Making sure that businesses that can’t afford downtime can count on it
- IT companies can also include VoIP in their other services, which gives clients more value and helps them build recurring revenue models
Lower Communication Costs for Businesses
One of the most useful benefits of turning off landlines is that it saves money. It was hard to keep up with traditional landlines and the cost of calling other countries was very high. VoIP systems, on the other hand, use the internet and let businesses:
- Cut down on your monthly phone bill compared to older systems
- Make calls to other countries for less money or even for free
- Put all of your tools, like video conferencing, messaging and phone calls, into one place
Businesses can use these savings to invest in other things, like new ideas, training for employees or better customer service.
Innovation in Remote Work and Digital Services
The pandemic taught us how important it is to have flexible, remote communication systems. The end of landlines speeds up this trend. Companies that can change quickly can:
- Give employees the option to work from home without needing office phone systems.
- Use cloud-based communication tools that work with CRM systems and tools for working together.
- Make new digital services that focus on unified communications, like apps that let you make calls, send messages and watch videos all in one place.
Companies can now boost productivity and reach more people without having to worry about physical infrastructure.