FOUR OUT of five people who have changed their broadband, mobile phone or electricity provider have saved money as a result, according to a new survey.
The National Consumer Agency (NCA) study showed changing mobile phone provider was at the top of the switch list last year, with one in four people moving to another provider.
Young people are the keenest when it comes to getting best value for their mobile phone, with 41 per cent of 15-24-year-olds switching provider regularly due to peer advice or promotions.
The survey, commissioned by the National Consumer Agency and carried out by Amárach Research, was conducted over a four-week period in May and June by means of face-to-face interviewing with a nationally representative sample of 1,000 people between the ages of 15 and 74.
Fergal O’Leary, senior research officer with the NCA, has warned consumers not to be taken in by all promotional offers or long-term contracts on the promise of a low-cost introduction fee.
“Always read the fine print. Don’t assume you are getting the best deal by face value. This is a consumer-driven market now and service providers are investing more into advertising and promotional offer schemes to attract consumer loyalty,” he said.
The most notable change according to the survey is the 8 per cent increase in the number of consumers who have changed broadband internet access providers.
Ann Fitzgerald, chief executive of the NCA, said: “There is a huge appetite for value among Irish consumers. The NCA is delighted to report from these findings that 69 per cent of Irish consumers who have switched providers believe they are now receiving a better service.”
Significant changes have been seen in the electricity market, where 4 per cent of customers have switched provider over the past 12 months and 12 per cent of consumers plan to change supplier in the coming year.
“The additional competition in the electricity market, with Bord Gáis and Airtricity entering the frame, has provided Irish consumers with more choice,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
“Informed consumers are empowered consumers, and savings can be made if people shop around. As well as getting the best value for themselves they will also help to drive competition.”
Another notable trend was that one in three consumers also prefer to keep switching car insurance providers in order to ensure that they’re getting the best deals.