The market power of the financial institutions also comes into play because unlike other kinds of business suppliers, institutions are able to withdraw funds directly from their customers' accounts. All other suppliers must bill for their services and wait for payment. Some firms have been successful in negotiating fee reductions, but they tend to be larger and stronger firms. But while negotiability helps some customers, it contributes to the belief among others that charges are padded or unjustifiably high. The price of service must be brought down for all customers.
Buyers only support high prices if they are accompanied by high quality service.
Small business owners agree that institutions should be paid for the services they provide. The oligopolistic nature of the banking sector is preventing market forces from ensuring that prices are set fairly. Improving the competitive environment in any market requires access to information. Only then can the demanders of services be able to evaluate the prices offered by service suppliers. Business owners need to have the ability to check the appropriateness of service charge levels at their banks relative to charges at other competing institutions.