Brits Abandon Work From Home for a New Obsession, Revealed in Virgin Media O2 Business Index

2023-10-26 01:15:04

Brits Embrace Savvy Shopping and Commuting Habits, According to Virgin Media O2 Business Index

London, 26th October 2023: The latest Virgin Media O2 Business Movers Index reveals that over half (56%) of UK workers now commute four days a week or more, while one in four (25%) UK shoppers have increased their spending. As the cost-of-living crisis continues, Brits are adopting a cost-conscious approach by seeking the best deals, maximizing office perks, and making the most of public transport. The quarterly index, which combines aggregated and anonymized UK movement data from O2 Motion with national polling findings, provides insights into population trends and consumer behavior.

Budget-Conscious Approach to Commuting and Shopping

With the cost-of-living crisis reaching its two-year mark, Brits are utilizing various strategies to cut costs and maximize their wellbeing. This includes taking advantage of cheaper public transport and free heating in the office. The data from the Movers Index shows that commuting trips saw a surge of 18% in September as schools reopened, indicating a return to offices. The index also highlights that over a third (35%) of UK shoppers have changed their shopping habits to find better prices. As major shopping events like Black Friday approach, over half (55%) of shoppers are likely to participate in the online shopping frenzy.

Retail Optimism for Winter Sales Season

Retailers are optimistic about the upcoming winter sales season, with events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday expected to yield big returns. According to the index, 88% of retailers anticipate a positive impact on sales from Black Friday, followed closely by ‘Panic Saturday’ before Christmas. The data suggests that the high street experienced a slight drop in footfall during the summer months, but saw a boost of 6% in September, likely due to back-to-school shopping. The index also reveals an increase in second-hand shopping, with 47% of individuals shopping for used items in the past month.

Public Transport and Sustainability

Despite strikes and delays causing disruption, Brits are sticking to public transport for non-work travel. Nearly one in five (19%) individuals have increased their use of public transport in the past three months. The index shows that cost savings (44%) and environmental considerations (33%) are driving factors for choosing public transport. As concerns around climate change grow, more individuals are opting for sustainable transportation options.

Jo Bertram, Managing Director of Virgin Media O2 Business, highlights the resilience of the British population in the face of the cost-of-living crisis. Bertram also emphasizes the importance of data insights in shaping strategic decisions for businesses.

The Virgin Media O2 Business Movers Index provides a comprehensive view of UK movement trends every quarter, offering valuable insights for businesses and consumers alike.

Source: Virgin Media O2 Business

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