The BBC’s Working Lunch programme has highlighted yet another example of the problems faced by small businesses in the energy market.

Some customers of British Gas Business (BGB) who have given notice they will be moving to another supplier are being contacted by BGB as they work out that notice period and offered a discounted price to stay.  All very well, except these consumers already have new contracts and, if they agree to stay with BGB, will find themselves caught between a rock and a hard place, being contracted to two companies at the same time.

BGB argues it is only working within the industry framework. However, when the BBC asked the company what use an improved offer was to a customer that had already signed a legally binding contract with another supplier BGB said – no comment.

Ofgem is currently holding a consultation on the issue to determine whether the market rules need to be changed to prevent this situation happening in the future.

Actions such as this only encourage more aggressive selling tactics on the part of BGB’s competitors – meaning more misery and inconvenience for small businesses.