MOSL acts on vacancy visibility

MOSL has introduced a new Additional Performance Indicator (API) for retailers on vacant premises with consumption. The API flags vacant premises with consumption above a certain minimum threshold known as the Q1 level, which is the minimum amount of consumption (flowing at a constant rate) that can be accurately measured for a given meter size.

There will be a three to six month bedding in period during which performance rectification will not be implemented. MOSL explained: “During this time we will engage with trading parties to better understand their plans to review and reduce the number of vacant premises with consumption or where they have evidence that its occupancy status is appropriate.”

The API will be tracked as part of a new set of vacancy dashboards, which aim to provide reliable visibility of vacancy performance and occupancy issues, to track trading party performance and enable peer comparison. MOSL said: “These new dashboards are an opportunity for collaboration and a resource to affect change, as oppose to ‘naming and shaming’. They will enable a transparent view of issues surrounding incorrect occupancy status, such as vacancy with consumption and eligibility of premises. These views will facilitate peer comparisons and incentivise market improvement.”