Consumer switching behaviour 2013
Summary
Research by Behaviour & Attitudes for the National Consumer Agency found that while many consumers tend to remain loyal to providers, almost half had switched at least one service. Switching was most common for groceries, car insurance and utilities, the majority of switchers reporting savings, with an average of €15–€20 per month. However, the study also showed low levels of engagement in checking for better deals, with perceived hassle and limited differences between providers acting as key barriers to switching.Publication details
- Publication date:2 September 2013
- Industry:Arts, sports & recreation - S, Financial and insurance services - L, Supply of electricity, gas & other - D, Telecom & IT service activities - K, Wholesale & retail trade - G
- NACE code:Retail trade - G.47, Sports & recreation - S.93, Telecommunication - K.61
Documents
Research report consumer switching 2013PDF | 5117 KBResearch report consumer switching 2013 PDF | 5117 KB - Opens in new window
Key findings on consumer switching behaviour
This study of consumer switching behaviour was conducted by Behaviour & Attitudes on behalf of the National Consumer Agency. Key findings from this research include:
- When describing their consumer behaviour, 37% of consumers said they ‘tend to stick with the same company for products and services’. While 27% said they ‘change companies often and avail of better deals’.
- Switching provider highest for main grocery shop (26%), car insurance (23%) and top-up grocery shop (20%), followed by electricity (16%) and gas (16%). Overall the proportion who have switched at least one product or service provider is 45%.
- Majority of switchers saved money – average monthly saving resulting from switching is around €15 to €20 per sector. This tends to be higher in health insurance where the average saving reported was €42.
- The research found in the sectors surveyed that a large number of consumers have not checked to see if there is a better package/deal available to them.
- Perceived barriers to switching included “it may be more hassle than a benefit” and “don’t believe there is much difference between suppliers”.
