Telecoms trade body ITSPA has changed its name to Comms Council UK.

The organisation – which counts NFON, Mitel, Gamma and Vonage among its 100 members – was established in 2004 to support and represent the telecoms sector in the UK. The decision to change its name is a reflection of the changing nature and services of its members, and was done in consultation with those members and stakeholders.

“The industry has transformed over the past two decades. Back in 2004, when ITSPA was formed, internet telephony was niche and still seen with trepidation,” stated Eli Katz, Chair of Comms Council UK.

“Now it’s the mainstream, with our members offering more than just phone calls to customers. It’s now a mix of services including video, messaging, chat and collaboration tools, with IP becoming the backbone of our communications networks.

“Whilst our mandate remains the same, we believed it was time for a refresh to also help support our broader activities with regulators and parliamentarians, the media, industry and consumers alike.”

The authority represents telco companies that provide services to both business and residential customers across the UK. It also provides or resells VoIP  and other applications, such as instant messaging and video. Its membership spans network operators, service providers, resellers, suppliers and consultants.

Comms Council UK’s principles will remain the same under the rebrand. It will continue to be the voice of the industry and help members prepare for any regulatory and technical changes that come along, it will also remain a convenor to develop best practice, solve problems and improve industry standards, as well as providing a forum to share insights and connect people.

“From an original dozen companies to an association of over 100 members, we go from strength to strength,” added Katz.

“There are numerous issues on the current agenda for Comms Council UK to tackle; the big one being the national PSTN switch off – the biggest change in UK telecoms in our generation. We are already working hard to make sure this process happens as smoothly as possible and that members are fully prepared to grow and support their customers through this huge change to the telecommunications sector.

“This will only continue to change how people communicate with each other, which is already shifting radically. Our members are ready for the many opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. We look forward to this new chapter in our trade association”.



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