"The influx of data services, coupled with the traditional flexibility and value of no contract plans, has considerably increased consumer interest in the no annual contract wireless market" said John Weber, Associate Research Analyst at IDC.

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But Thomas never donned an Isles uniform, either, and he's unlikely to: The organization probably won't toll his contract, preferring instead to have more financial flexibility to shape its roster.

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The statement seems to indicate that the contract that HarperCollins signed with Amazon allows the publisher some flexibility in determining pricing.

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Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn says the work rule and hiring flexibility of the auto maker's recent Spanish labor contract can serve as a road map for its efforts to cut costs in France.

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In addition, Monthly4G plans require no annual contract, no credit check and no deposit, offering great value and flexibility to customers.

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"You are going to take away any flexibility the franchise has for the next two years when you sign that contract, " said Mike Francesa, a host for New York sports radio station WFAN, said earlier.

CNN: July 19, 2012 -- Updated 2229 GMT (0629 HKT)