Two thirds of firms ‘switching’

APPROXIMATELY two thirds of businesses have adopted a mentality of switching providers for services, due to the economic downturn, according to a survey.

The survey – from communications network company 3 Ireland – highlights how a switching culture has developed among Ireland’s corporate community, as a direct response to companies looking to save money during the recession.

Its findings include 64% of Irish businesses switching phone, internet and/or electricity provider; with as much as 62% of those that switched claiming to have achieved savings of more than 10% in their costs.

“As the research shows, now more than ever customers want value for money and a reliable service. We have seen time and time again that many businesses across Ireland are unhappy with the traditional competitor offering,” said 3 Ireland’s sales and marketing director, Elaine Carey.

“These results reflect the impact of the recession on businesses as they are forced to examine every aspect of their costs to find potential savings. It also reflects the growth of the switching culture in Ireland amongst both businesses and consumers,” she added.

The telecommunications market has been a primary driver of the switching culture with some of the biggest savings available. Nearly three quarters of businesses (73%) indicated saving more than 10% as a result of switching.