Mediacom Tries to Win Back Lost Subscribers

Mediacom Communications is using rebates and free programming incentives to try to lure back the 7,000 subscribers it lost as a result of its protracted retransmission-consent battle with Sinclair Broadcast Group, AP reported.

The MSO is offering lost customers in areas where Sinclair stations were temporarily removed rebates of up to $300 to reconnect their service, telling AP the money is intended to help defray penalties they may incur to get out of a contract with a direct-broadcast satellite provider or a competing cable operator.

Upon signing contracts ranging from 18 months to three years, subscribers can receive six free months of a Mediacom service -- cable television, high-speed Internet or telephone -- with a reduced rate after the six months expire, AP reported.