We are advising all our members to look carefully at all overhead costs and talk to suppliers if neccessary- you will need to be proactive as the majority will not come to you as most are taking individual approaches to dealing with their business customers.
Overheads include both utility supplies and other contracted supplies and services - please share your ideas with other members on
MWT Cymru Facebook group
.
Suppliers’ websites are almost all noting how busy they are so persistence will be required and bear in mind that you will be wishing to reinstate contracts and cordial relationships for the recovery.
Services Suppliers
for example Broadband, Environmental, Sanitary bins, Credit card processing, Security services (such as G4S), Cleaning services, Laundry contracts, Uniform hire, Equipment Hire e.g. photcopier, Washing machine and equipment hire, software packages, Sky, BT
Before contacting the supplier, you should consider what your new demand for each service is likely to be. For instance:
- complete closure with no demand – ‘vacant’ as described by the water industry
- ‘tick-over’ as in the closed season?
- x% occupancy/usage to include key workers and/or the homeless?
- Can a contract be extended to reflect the lack of/no service experienced for the closed period.
Utility bills
- Electricity, Gas, Water, Waste water, Surface and highways drainage, Waste, Refuse
- Take action to monitor estimated readings
- Ask for reductions/ cancellations in standing charges and / or maximum demand tariffs
- Review all direct debits and standing orders - Don’t be too hasty - talk to the supplier first as there is likely to be a penalty if you cancel unilaterally.
