Access to the network has historically been limited to financial institutions, but recent innovations by the SWIFT organisation have seen the potential user base extended far beyond traditional participants. Corporates wishing to benefit from the messaging standards, security and reliability offered by the network may now join one or more Member Administered Closed user Groups (MACUG). This will allow them to transact business with their bankers in a manner that will reduce both operational cost and risk. By providing connectivity to the SWIFT network via the Simplex Steria Service Bureau, Topcall are responding to customer demands for greater efficiencies and reduced costs in processing cross border payments and the handling of account statements.

"The partnership is an exciting progression for TOPCALL," said Phil Keleher, banking & financial services manager, TOPCALL. "Organisations of all types are incresingly looking to reduce the costs and operational overheads associated with their financial messaging. The ability to standardise banking connections, whilst minimising risk and lowering financial outlay lies at the heart of many a corporate treasurer's objectives and we anticipate strong demand for the service."

Philip Walsh, Marketing Director at Simplex Consulting adds "TOPCALL's extensive customer base which includes many of the UK's largest corporations provides our Bureau initiative with rapid access to the corporate market. These organisations can benefit most from the key value areas such as security and standards that a more accessible SWIFT network delivers."