Bulldog sets sights on business broadband

Communications operator Bulldog is planning a new assault on the UK's small business sector.

It announced the creation of a new division, called Bulldog Business, on Wednesday. New services for business customers are due to launch in 2006, starting with an broadband service for small businesses.

This will initially include broadband and VoIP, but will "encompass other products in 2006", the company said in a statement. Users buying this product will also get a second telephone line over their existing line, without having to get another line physically installed.

Bulldog uses local-loop unbundling to install its own equipment in BT's local exchanges, letting it offer services BT doesn't.

"Bulldog understands that small businesses don't just need the newest, fastest or cheapest solution — what they need is something that, simply, affordably and reliably, supports their business," said Carlo Soresina, sales and marketing director of Bulldog, who will head the new business unit.

But given the problems Bulldog has experienced this year — including an Ofcom investigation — some businesses may be reluctant to trust the company.

As ZDNet UK first reported, Bulldog users were up in arms this summer. Many ordered the company's service, only for it not to be delivered. Others complained that they were unable to contact the company's customer support desk.

Bulldog has claimed that these problems are over, but some customers say they are still suffering.

A Bulldog spokesman said on Wednesday that the company "fully understands how critical broadband and voice services are to businesses, and has built a dedicated business support offering to meet their requirements."

"We're continually working to improve this offering; with the communications infrastructure at the heart of most modern businesses, its absolutely crucial to be able to access support offerings when needed," the spokesman added.