Echo Managed Services has helped nearly a third of UK water retailers meet the sector’s new compliancy regulations in time for the launch of the Open Water market.

Echo has been working closely with both its wholesale and retail clients in the run-up to the launch to ensure its RapidXtra Retail billing software supports their need to comply with the new market regulations, interact with the market operator and to allow them to compete within the new environment.

The water industry specialist outsourcer has worked with retailers including Anglian Water Business, Source for Business (the trading brand for Pennon Water Services), South Staffs Water Business and water2business, as well as wholesalers Pelican Business Services, South Staffs Water and South West Water.

Andy Mack, software services director at Echo, said:

“The last few months have been extremely busy for our clients and the Echo team as we’ve navigated evolving requirements whilst delivering our retail ready roadmap. The hard work has now paid off and we are delighted to have successfully helped all of our clients become compliant and ready on time."

“The opening of the UK water market is a historic moment in the utility sector, and as the market evolves, we will continue to keep a close eye on developments, reacting quickly to any regulatory changes so our clients remain compliant and competitive."

Echo currently works with a total of 15 water companies in the English market, providing a variety of outsourced services including customer contact, billing software services, and debt collection.

The company is already planning a fifth upgrade release of RapidXtra Retail in August, which will add further enhancements to its clients’ customer service and billing capabilities.