2000 and beyond

Article Abstract:

The withdrawal of Royal Mail approval for many business franking machines, which began in 1997, has considerably changed the market and manufacturers are being required to update their products to comply with new regulations and to reduce fraud. It is estimated that around 90,000 of the 200,000 franking machines in use will be affected by the changes. The new rules require the discontinuation of mechanical machines, while all remaining machines must be able to be re-credited remotely by 2004.

Office machines, not elsewhere classified, Office Machinery Manufacturing, Postage Meters, Metered mail

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Royal Mail

Article Abstract:

All franking machines in the U.K. have to be approved and licensed by the Royal Mail. When a new franking machine is introduced, it must be tested by the Royal Mail, which has the power to withdraw any unfit machines from the market. Franking machines that are no longer used must be notified to the Royal Mail which will tell the manufacturer to collect it. Franked mail must not be put in post boxes but should be collected by the Royal Mail or handed in at a Post Office.

Postal Services, Mail handling equipment, Equipment and supplies

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The impact of competition

Article Abstract:

The deregulation of Britain's gas and electricity markets means that small business users can take advantage lower prices, but many have been prevented from doing so by fear of the unknown and the market's seeming complexity. However, increasing competition in the small- and medium-sized business enterprises market has made contracts simpler to understand and more consumers have been able to access energy cost savings.

PETROLEUM AND COAL PRODUCTS, Energy, Utilities, Utilities Regulation, Purchasing, Electric utilities, Small business, Energy use, Contracts, Natural gas, Gas industry, Power resources, Deregulation, Electric power, Utility regulations

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