Netflix to raise prices for Irish subscribers for second time in 18 months

Netflix, which has about 600,000 subscribers in Ireland, according to Ampere Analysis, is to raise the price of its most popular package, which offers simultaneous viewing on two screens, HD and the ability to download shows and films to two devices, to £10.99 a month (€13.10).

In Ireland the basic plan will rise by €1 to €8.99, the standard package will increase from €12.99 to €14.99 and the premium tier will rise from €17.99 to €20.99.

The price rises, which were expected after a hefty increase for its US subscribers in January, will come into effect immediately for new subscribers. Existing subscribers will get 30 days notice by email, depending on their billing cycle.

Netflix said the increases were the inevitable cost associated with maintaining a continual pipeline of new content for viewers amid rising competition from rivals including Amazon’s Prime Video, Disney+ and HBO Max.

“We have always been focused on providing our members both quality and clear value for their membership,” said a Netflix spokesperson.

“Our updated prices reflect the investment we have made in our service and catalogue and will allow us to continue making the series, documentaries and films our members love as well as investing in talent and the creative industry. 

"We offer a range of plans so members can choose a price that works best for them.” 

Before the two rounds of price rises Netflix’s most popular tier cost £8.99 (€10.70) and its premium plan cost £11.99 (€14.29).

Its rival Disney+, which launched in the UK in early 2020, raised its prices last year. The decision was taken after it doubled its content by adding its Star service to Disney+, offering programmes designed to appeal to a wider non-Disney audience, such as Lost, Desperate Housewives, 24 and The X-Files.