LOCKDOWN LEADS TO 99% INCREASE IN HIGH-SPEED BROADBAND SALES
High-speed broadband sales nearly doubled in the first three weeks from when COVID-19 social distancing and lockdown measures were implemented, according to MoneySuperMarket research.
The price comparison site’s broadband sales data shows that purchases of the highest speeds (61+ Mbs) for the three weeks from when social distancing measures were introduced on 16th March saw a spike after the government advised working from home where possible.
Percentage increase in sales by speed of broadband from the three weeks up to 16th March and the three weeks following
| Sales Period | Speed (Mbs) | ||||||
| % change from 24 February – 15 March 2020 to 16 March – 6 April 2020 | 0-10 | 11-20 | 21-30 | 31-40 | 41-50 | 51-60 | 61+ |
| +60% | -20% | 0% | -33% | +34% | -49% | +99% | |
For the same period in 2019, the sales of high-speed internet dropped by 33%, indicating that this isn’t simply a seasonal trend but one sparked by the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the nationwide lockdown.
When comparing all remaining data – from January to April 2020 – sales of high-speed broadband were up by 146% during this three week period.
Similarly, on a day-to-day basis, there was a 32% average increase in all broadband sales in the three weeks following March 16th compared to the three weeks prior.
Emma Spencer, Senior Channel Manager at MoneySuperMarket, commented: “Lockdown has had an impact on various aspects of our lives, with many of us now relying on a strong, stable internet connection in order to work from home, stay entertained or keep in touch with family and friends. We’re seeing this reflected in high-speed broadband sales, resulting in a 99% spike following the implementation of social distancing measures.
“It is still possible to switch provider if you find your current connection is running slower than usual, and in the majority of cases an engineer is not required to visit your home to get you up and running. However, there are a number of steps you can also try to boost your speed, such as reducing the number of devices you have connected to your WiFi, ensuring there’s no outside interference from other electronic appliances and making all software is updated.
“If you’re looking into a faster internet speed to cope with increased demand, comparing the best broadband and shopping around will ensure you get the right package for you.”
