Introduce competition by informing the vendor that you are evaluating other similarly-functioning solutions. Presenting a lower quote from a competitor can serve as a powerful negotiating tactic to obtain better pricing or terms from Merge API.
If you face a large uplift during renewal and need to reduce costs, emphasize your budget constraints and the necessity to adjust the contract's scope. Communicate that without a reduction in the proposed rates, you will have to consider alternatives or reduce your contract size significantly.
Advocate for a cost reduction based on your unchanged or declining service usage. Justify your position by presenting internal budget constraints, leveraging previous pricing agreements to validate your request.
When discussing renewals, challenge any proposed uplift by stating your expectation of stable pricing consistent with historical agreements. Highlight that many competitors don't implement uplifts for similar services, strengthening your position.
If Merge API's services have not demonstrated expected ROI, advocate for a shorter-term contract while you reassess the value provided. Explain to the vendor that without this flexibility, you'll need to explore alternatives.