Yes, there has been a noticeable trend in B2B customer-imposed fees in recent years. This trend can be attributed to various factors such as increased competition, rising costs, and changing customer expectations. B2B companies are finding it increasingly challenging to maintain profitability and are resorting to customer-imposed fees as a means to offset costs and maintain margins.

One example of this trend is the airline industry, where B2B customers, such as travel agencies and corporate clients, are being charged various fees beyond the base ticket price. These fees can include charges for ticket changes, baggage handling, seat selection, and priority boarding. Airlines argue that these fees are necessary to cover operational costs and offer customers more flexibility and choice. However, critics argue that these fees can be seen as hidden charges and can lead to customer dissatisfaction.

Another example can be seen in the banking industry, where B2B customers, such as businesses and merchants, are being charged fees for various services. For instance, businesses may be charged fees for processing credit card transactions, maintaining merchant accounts, or accessing certain banking services. These fees are often justified by banks as covering the costs associated with providing these services. However, businesses may find it burdensome to manage and budget for these additional fees.

The technology sector is also witnessing an increase in customer-imposed fees. Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) companies, for example, often charge B2B customers additional fees for premium features, data storage, user licenses, or technical support. These fees are typically presented as add-ons or upgrades to the base subscription price. While SaaS companies argue that these fees provide added value and customization options, some customers may perceive them as necessary expenses to fully utilize the software.

It is important to note that customer-imposed fees are not limited to specific industries and can vary widely depending on the nature of the B2B relationship. Some other examples include professional services firms charging additional fees for rush orders or expedited services, wholesalers charging fees for product customization or special packaging, or logistics companies charging fees for specific delivery requirements.

Overall, the growing trend of B2B customer-imposed fees can be attributed to the need for companies to remain competitive and maintain profitability in a challenging business environment. While these fees can help companies offset costs and offer more tailored services, they can also lead to customer dissatisfaction if not communicated and justified properly.