New research has revealed that more than half of Irish businesses are still not on a fibre broadband connection, with small businesses most reliant on outdated technologies such as copper and cable.
The survey from wholesale broadband operator SIRO shows that barriers to switching to fibre cited by businesses include perceived cost, fibre not being available in their area, lack of awareness of fibre and its benefits, or a belief that it would not make a difference to their business.
80% of business respondents believe that broadband plays an important role in their business operation.
SIRO has warned of a ‘two-speed’ connectivity and digitisation process amongst Irish businesses.
“SIRO’s research shows that while larger businesses are making the switch to fibre broadband, smaller businesses are lagging behind, with knock-on impacts on digital adaption,” said SIRO’s Chief Commercial Officer Ronan Whelan.
“With the switch off of copper broadband on the way, Government and industry need to do more to encourage Irish businesses not just to make the switch to fibre broadband, but to better understand how it can deliver tangible benefits to their bottom line,” Mr Whelan said.
SIRO’s research, undertaken by Amárach Research, surveyed over 270 Irish businesses, ranging from small to large enterprises, on their broadband usage, experience and satisfaction with their connectivity overall.
SIRO was launched in 2015 as a joint venture between ESB and Vodafone with the aim of delivering the first 100% fibre-to-the-building broadband across regional Ireland.
