BT is calling on UK businesses to transition from outdated analogue copper landlines to more robust digital networks by the end of 2025. This move comes after a study revealed that many small businesses still rely on traditional technologies, putting them at risk of disruptions.
Research shows that 22% of small businesses are still heavily dependent on analogue systems, despite the UK’s traditional copper telephone infrastructure being scheduled for retirement by 2027. BT has warned that businesses that delay the migration will face increased outages as the ageing network becomes more fragile.
The UK’s telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, recently reported a 45% rise in incidents on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) in 2024, further highlighting the need for businesses to upgrade their systems. As the PSTN is phased out, businesses must switch to digital networks, such as full-fibre, to ensure uninterrupted service.
BT has already helped move nearly 300,000 legacy business lines to digital in 2024 and aims to support all UK businesses in making the switch before 31 December 2025. After this date, businesses still connected to the PSTN may face disruptions or service changes.
Beyond avoiding outages, transitioning to digital infrastructure offers businesses significant benefits. BT’s survey revealed that 80% of businesses that invested in new technology gained a competitive edge, with 79% finding new customers. Digital connectivity has also been essential for start-ups and scale-ups, with 73% of business owners saying they couldn’t operate without reliable broadband and mobile services.
BT has also highlighted that digital networks are essential for future advancements, such as AI and augmented reality, which rely on fast, high-bandwidth connectivity. Businesses that fail to adopt these networks may miss out on productivity gains and struggle to keep up with industry trends.
Kerry Small, BT’s Chief Operating Officer for Business, emphasised that the move away from the analogue network is necessary for building a secure economic foundation. “It’s simply too risky to build the economy on a shaky foundation, and we’re calling on all businesses to move before the end of 2025,” she said.
Small Business Britain, which supports the UK’s 5.5 million SMEs, is backing BT’s call for businesses to embrace digital technologies. Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain, noted that small businesses have been eager to adopt technology, especially since the pandemic. “Business owners need support to make these transitions – which is why we highly value our ongoing partnership with BT to help small businesses on their digital journey,” she said.
By making the switch now, businesses can ensure they remain competitive, secure, and ready for future technological advancements.
