PCCW discounts anger clients

Telecommunications giant PCCW has been accused of snubbing its loyal customers by offering discounts of as much as 40 per cent exclusively to newcomers.

The angry complaints from longtime customers came yesterday after the company launched a price war in which some new subscribers were offered a monthly rental of only $66 for a fixed telephone line, instead of the $110 charged to existing customers.

Under the package, customers who shift from rival companies enjoy a free trial for up to six months, depending on the expiry date of their existing contracts, and then pay a discounted rate of $88 - if they sign an 18-month contract with PCCW.

Several longtime PCCW customers called an RTHK radio phone-in programme to express their anger.

A Mr Hui accused the company of ignoring its faithful customers. 'The company only seeks to attract customers from the rival companies. But it is equally important to keep their existing customers. What PCCW is now doing is to encourage its loyal customers to shift to other telephone operators and return for a discount.'

A Mrs Lau said: 'I have been staying with PCCW for a very long time and refused to shift to other telephone companies which offer cheaper services. I strongly believe PCCW should also show its appreciation for our loyalty.