Utility Warehouse (Telecom Plus) Discussion

OldGreyFox

Cardew wrote: »

This is presumably because of the new regulations concerning 'doorstep selling'(and virtually all UW selling is classified as 'doorstep selling')

No thats a completely seperate issue, but they have been given guidance on how to meet Ofcom,s new requirements at point of sale.

Plushchris

1973safc wrote: »

He asked whether the company were any good or not, he didn't ask you to post yet more of your propaganda (which you never miss any opportunity to do).

He actually asked if there were any hidden pitfalls to look out for, generally the gas and electricity prices ARE a hidden pitfall as UW salesman often gloss over them simply saying they are "competitive" or not mention them at all. So he may not have been aware of them.

Also the OP didnt mention the cashcard, if he isnt using the cashcard then he could be getting a far better deal elsewhere, even if he is using the cashcard, he could use that "Cashback" against just his phone package and get cheaper gas and electric elsewhere.

Anyway, I thought you didnt have any interest in UW's energy prices so why are you interested in what he's doing?

tim1972_2

Hi. I have been approached about becoming a distributor for UWDC. I have seen ALOT of positive & negative comments (some positive from their reps maybe?? - but lets not discuss this now please).

Does anyone have any OBJECTIVE comments / feedback (& please lets try not to get personal about others peoples comments/experiences).

It seems to me that they are not the cheapest gas/elec supplier, but if you add to that they discount card, it can make a difference. What are peoples experiences?

Any comments are much appreciated.

Cheers.

ColinAllCars

tim1972 wrote: »

Any comments are much appreciated.

Go to one of their opportunity meetings and see what you think.

Talk to fellow Mortgage Brokers / IFA already in the business and seek their opinion.



Inactive UW Distributor.

ColinAllCars

OldGreyFox wrote: »

No thats a completely seperate issue, but they have been given guidance on how to meet Ofcom,s new requirements at point of sale.

I can confirm that from the 18/1/2010 Distributors have to use new application forms,and provide a written quotation based on info supplied by the customer where possible.


Inactive Distributor.

Cardew

tim1972 wrote: »

Does anyone have any OBJECTIVE comments / feedback (& please lets try not to get personal about others peoples comments/experiences).

It seems ot me tht they ar enot the cheapest gas/elec supplier, but if you add to that they discount card, it can make a difference. What are peoples experiences?

Any comments are much appreciated.

Cheers.

Objective comments - certainly.

1. Not only is UW's gas and electricity "not the cheapest" it is without doubt just about the most expensive in UK. If you take the average customer who consumes 20,500kWh gas and 3,300kWh electricity they will pay in the region of £300 and around 30%, more for their gas and electricity than the cheapest supplier.

That is the biggest single drawback of UW. Don't take my word for it, check on ANY comparison website.

2. Their phone and broadband package is far more competitive within the market but not the cheapest by any means.

3. Their mobile costs are expensive.

4. Taking 4 or more packages gives you inclusive 'global' calls - to many international destinations - not all. The value of these calls will vary according to the individual requirements of the customer.

5. They have an excellent cashback pre-pay card that gives 5% credited back to your account if you use the shops that accept the UW card. You pay £10 for this card and each time you top up.

Whilst the cashcard is very good, the average gas/electricty customer will have to spend around £8,000 a year on the card just to get back the extra he is paying for gas and electricity(see explanation earlier in thread)

There are also other pre-pay cards that give similar or better discounts(see explanation earlier in thread)

The above are the major issues, clearly there are many other points for and against UW.

1973safc

Cardew wrote: »

I am insinuating that you are a UW salesperson

And I am telling you to prove it.

tim1972_2

Hi ColinAllCars, I had an informal opportunity meeting today & it all seemed very good, but they of course maybe a little bias.

I am a BNI member & almost every BNI chapter has a UWDC presence. i'll have a word with a few I know, but not many peopel i know are doing it.

May I ask why you are inactive?

kippen_noedel

ColinAllCars wrote: »

Go to one of their opportunity meetings and see what you think.

Talk to fellow Mortgage Brokers / IFA already in the business and seek their opinion.



Inactive UW Distributor.

Do UW salespeople also sell mortgages and give financial advice ?
If yes, are they tied agents or Independents ?
If not, I am curious why you use those terms ?

Plushchris

tim1972 wrote: »

Hi ColinAllCars, I had an informal opportunity meeting today & it all seemed very good, but they of course maybe a little bias.

Bare in mind whoever it was that approached you about becoming a distributer will be getting something for getting you to sign up too.