Only a few change their broadband providers

When it comes to switching to better service or deals, broadband does not hold as much priority as other services like finance, energy, car insurance or even mobile phone, according to a latest study on consumers’ habits.

Less than two in ten broadband users (14%) changed their broadband providers during the last one year, reports gocompare.com.

In comparison, the changing of mobile phone tariff was slightly more frequent at 19%. Switching car insurance providers (23%) and energy suppliers (21%) were among the top priorities when the people were looking for better deals.

Over-all, nearly half of the consumers (41%) did not switch the existing service or utility providers in the last one year. Research firm Loudhouse conducted the survey on 1,500 participants last month.

Lee Griffin, business development director at Gocompare.com says that many consumers continue to pay more for the essential services like energy and broadband as they do not take advantage of the existing competition and the better services but simply get stuck with their current providers.

“In our experience the only reward you get for loyalty is a higher price than you’d pay as a new customer, so shop around for the best deals and if your existing provider seems expensive, switch.” he added.

Ofcom’s survey, last year, also offered similar view. Consumers’ satisfaction levels with their ISPs were up, due to improved speeds and customer service. New customers and switchers often preferred bundled services such as broadband with phone, TV or all communication services from one provider.