Sky unveils new pricing structure

Sky has today announced a new system of charging licensees to use its services, which it claims will be fairer.

The announcement follows a consultation with licensees, pub companies and trade associations over the last nine months.

The fee licensees pay for Sky will still be based around rateable value, but other factors specific to each pub and how fundamental Sky is to their business will also be taken into account.

This means Sky will look closely at how the business is driven by factors such as sport, outdoor areas, food and accommodation.

Iain Holden, managing director of Sky Business, said: "We've talked and consulted with the trade and we are addressing the points they have raised.

"This is part of a journey. There are still things we need to look at, for example, accommodation and seasonality.

"We have reacted to what the trade has asked and we can be trusted to act in the same manner going forward."

Licensees are set to receive letters this week explaining how the new system works.

Sky is also asking for details of individual pubs' fair maintainable trade to help set the rates.

It is understood Sky will recoup much the same amount of money as it already does, with some pubs paying more and others less.

New packages will come into effect on August 28 and will also include HD and 3D as standard.

The satellite broadcaster is also attempting to attract lapsed customers by introducing trial periods and bespoke contracts.

Holden added: "The licensed trade has gone through a number of changes over the last decade and Sky recognises that it is a more diverse industry than ever.

"As a result we have reviewed our pricing structure to see if there was a fairer way to reflect these changes, we have created a structure which we believe more accurately reflects the value that Sky brings to the individual premises."