Isle of Man paper phonebook distribution to end after 2025

A telecoms provider has announced that the distribution of paper phonebooks across the Isle of Man will cease following the 2025 edition. Manx Telecom (MT) stated that this transition to a digital directory, effective from 2026, is intended to “provide a more environmentally friendly solution”. The company, responsible for producing the phonebook, also indicated that the change aims to “enhance protection for customer data” in accordance with current legislation. It further noted that printed versions of the directory would remain accessible upon request, and extra assistance would be extended to “those who may need it”. This development follows a similar announcement in the UK, where BT confirmed it would discontinue the delivery of paper phonebooks from March this year, after more than 140 years of printing them. In recent years on the island, MT has been printing approximately 54,500 copies of the local directory, which also contains business contact details. The telecoms provider’s last 2025 phonebook, recently distributed, included an explanatory letter addressed to customers. The letter specified that the company would continue to “provide additional information on directory services, including options for businesses, individuals who require additional support, and anyone preferring a printed copy”.