The Consumer Coalition for Competition in Satellite Radio (C3SR) has announced it is ready to fight the proposed merger between XM and Sirius. Last month, the consumer group announced its formation in anticipation of the potential merger, with the goal of raising consumer awareness of the potential impact of a merger.

Chris Reale, one of the founders of C3SR, says that “a monopoly satellite radio provider would be able to raise prices and cut programming to a growing number of consumers that have come to rely on satellite radio for news and entertainment.” He adds, “If this merger is permitted to go forward, there will be no protection of competition and there will be no competitors."

C3SR is asking for support from Sirius and XM subscribers, as well as other consumer groups and key industry allies who oppose this merger. “While C3SR will never compromise its independence as a voice for Sirius and XM subscribers, we are looking to join forces with other groups that are willing to support our cause,” said Reale. “Satellite radio subscribers’ investment in equipment and specific programming packages must be protected, and we hope that alliances with established interest groups will be possible.”

“Our main goal right now is to stop this merger,” Reale added. “If a merger were to be approved, subscribers would likely end up paying more for less programming, and would end up subsidizing unwanted services.”