Why This Matters
Price changes aren’t just a footnote; they shape budgets, influence technology decisions, and impact long-term strategy. 2026 brings several vendor adjustments that every IT leader should factor into their planning. Here’s what’s coming and how to stay ahead.
Microsoft SPLA: January 2026
Microsoft has confirmed updates to SPLA pricing effective against consumption from 1 January 2026, with new rates applying from 10 January. Expect circa 10% increases across:
Exchange Server
SharePoint Server
Skype for Business Server
Dynamics GP/NAV/SL (full users, with some exclusions)
Important: Windows Server and SQL Server remain unchanged (subject to FX).
Microsoft 365 Price Increase July 2026: What You Need to Know
From 1 July 2026, Microsoft will adjust commercial suite pricing. Percentage uplifts vary by plan, but here’s the approximate picture:
Plan
% Change
Business Basic
+16.7%
Business Standard
+12.0%
Office 365 E3
+13.0%
Microsoft 365 E3
+8.3%
Microsoft 365 E5
+5.3%
Frontline F1
+33.3%
Frontline F3
+25.0%
UK pricing will follow GBP list rates at the time, but the percentage logic remains consistent. Microsoft 365 price increase July 2026 UK.
CSP Renewal Hygiene: April 2026
Not a list-price rise, but a cost exposure risk:
From 1 April 2026, expired CSP subscriptions may continue under an Extended Service Term, billed at the monthly rate plus 3% administration fee. Poor renewal hygiene could cost more—plan ahead.
Veeam: January 2026
Veeam will apply subscription price indexing from 1 January 2026, with uplifts between 4% and 8% across common offerings.
Openreach Legacy Copper: April–October 2026
Openreach has confirmed stepped increases to WLR/ISDN services to accelerate PSTN migration:
+20% from April
+40% from July
+40% from October
By late 2026, these legacy services will effectively double in cost. Migration to All-IP is no longer optional—it’s urgent.
Strategic Takeaways
Budget Early: Factor these uplifts into FY26 planning now.
Review Renewals: Avoid CSP extension fees by tightening renewal processes.
Plan Migrations: Copper withdrawal is accelerating—don’t leave it late.
Engage Your Partner: CMS Group can help model cost impact and optimise licensing strategies.
Ready to plan ahead?
👉 Book a 15-minute strategy call with our licensing experts.
We’ll help you stay compliant, control costs, and keep your roadmap on track.
FAQs
Q: When will Microsoft 365 prices increase in the UK?
A: From 1 July 2026, with uplifts ranging from 5% to 33% depending on plan.
Q: Are Windows Server and SQL Server affected?
A: No changes confirmed for January 2026 (subject to FX).
Q: How can I avoid CSP extension fees?
A: Ensure renewals are processed before expiry; CMS Group can automate this for you.
