Frontier Essentially Accuses Time Warner Cable of Being a Shakedown Artist

Frontier Communications has continued its aggressive campaign to hit back against its cable competition, most notably Time Warner Cable.  In its most recent advertising in the Rochester area, Frontier compared Time Warner Cable’s broadband usage caps and rate hikes “the Cable shakedown.”  Wow.  Even we don’t go that far.

Frontier has gotten aggressive since Time Warner Cable made Rochester, Frontier’s largest service area, a test market for its Cap ‘n Tier program, temporarily shelved.  Frontier doesn’t believe for a second that Time Warner Cable is done with metered billing in this community, and neither do we.  So they are going to spend the summer continuing efforts to poach Time Warner’s customers.

Meanwhile, Frontier CEO and Chairwoman Maggie Wilderotter has penned an e-mail being sent to every Frontier customer commenting on the economy and calling out cable for annual rate increases:

Dear Frontier Customer,

We are in tough economic times. As you look for ways to save money, I want to assure you Frontier is dedicated to providing you with robust, value-added voice, high-speed data and video products.

Now, more than ever, Frontier is committed to the communities we serve. As a significant employer and a major taxpayer, Frontier takes pride in our active role in our markets. Our local managers and front line employees are highly visible and involved in many community organizations and events. They stand ready to suggest ways to use our services and resources wisely.

We provide innovative solutions and products for all types of communications needs. Fast, reliable communications technology, especially broadband, has never been more important. Customers tell me that as their budgets get smaller, the value of using our services in the home increases. Many families rely on Frontier products for their jobs, education and entertainment. Whether it’s Digital Voice, Data, or Video, we are here to help you explore different product and pricing options. Just visit any Frontier location or give us a call at 800-921-8101 and our customer care representatives will help you.

Despite recessionary times, Frontier continues to invest in the technology that gives you the power to connect at home, in the office or on the go with speed and reliability. We are committed to your complete satisfaction. Unlike our Cable Operator competitors, we don’t depend upon an annual rate increase; in fact, Frontier provides price protection plans so you know what to expect during your agreement term. We are proud to offer the best products at the best prices in our markets – with unparalleled service to make the customer experience the best it can be. Frontier is local, financially solid, and optimistic about the future.

Although none of us know when it will happen, I do believe better times are ahead. We have been tested before and emerged stronger. We will get through this, and Frontier is here for you in good times and challenging times.

Thank you again for your business and support. We take it seriously and all of us at Frontier will continue to work hard to provide you with the best communications products and services.

Sincerely,
Maggie Wilderotter
Chairman and CEO
Frontier Communications
[email protected]
I can help you!

Now if only their DSL product could deliver consistent results no matter where their customers might live (and they keep their own 5GB ‘acceptable use’ stuff unmonitored and unenforced.)