Businesses hampered by poor mobile coverage
According to a survey of over 1,400 mostly small businesses by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), more than 70% have “not spots” that experience intermittent or absent mobile Internet availability near their locations, thereby “hobbling productivity.”
The survey found that the problem especially affects businesses located in the countryside, where 90% experience problems. However, 56% of the businesses located in cities, including portions of the City of London, are also affected.
The BCC’s research noted that almost one-third of the respondents categorise their Internet service as unreliable, with the figure increasing to 54% in more rural areas.
The survey also found that most businesses are unable to access the highest connection speeds, with only 42% reporting 4G availability.
Dr Adam Marshall, the BCC’s Director General, said: “Time and again, I hear from frustrated businesspeople who can’t use their mobiles or access the Internet when they need to. These are basic requirements for companies to work on the move, trade online and connect with customers and suppliers.”
The BCC suggested relaxing planning restrictions so that higher mobile phone masts can be built to improve coverage, and it stated that regulator Ofcom must ensure that mobile providers keep their promises to improve coverage. Ofcom has stipulated that most locations in the UK should receive 4G coverage by the end of 2017.
A spokesperson for the regulator stated: “We agree that mobile coverage must improve and understand the importance of having reliable mobile broadband wherever people live and work. Ofcom rules mean that virtually all UK premises must receive a 4G signal by the end of this year. We’re also making available valuable new airwaves to boost mobile broadband and have challenged mobile operators to explore how to reach all remote areas and transport lines.”