Consumers are unwilling to part with their broadband services at home even in the midst of the economic downturn, preferring to cut spending on things like dining out and leisure travel, according to a series of studies sponsored by Alcatel-Lucent.

Broadband services appear to be nearly recession-proof, with 84 per cent of consumers identifying broadband as an essential network service and therefore the least likely target for spending cuts. The studies also showed that more consumers globally are planning to subscribe to and/or upgrade their broadband services, even while reducing spending in other areas. Key factors driving this preference include a desire to reduce the cost and travel time associated with commuting, coupled with a preference for greener alternatives. In developed countries, respondents also noted a growing dependence on the Web as an information source, business tool, social network and entertainment venue.

Categories: Broadband, Research Library