The latest assessment of broadband services in the UK has revealed an unexpected winner. Plusnet, a subsidiary of BT, emerged victorious in the annual awards presented by Broadband Genie, surpassing industry giants like BT, Sky, and Virgin Media. Plusnet not only secured the title of Best Provider but also claimed accolades for being the Most Reliable Provider and Most User-Friendly.
Alex Tofts, a Strategist at Broadband Genie, highlighted Plusnet’s appeal, emphasizing its focus on simplicity and quality customer service over flashy incentives like TV or phone bundles. Plusnet’s straightforward broadband-only deals, which come with no setup costs or line rentals, were commended for their value and support.
In addition to Plusnet, other broadband providers were recognized by Broadband Genie. NOW, Three, Vodafone, and Virgin received awards such as Best Value for Money, Fastest Widely Available Provider, and Best Customer Service.
The survey also identified areas for improvement within the industry. Customer satisfaction with service quality was notably low, with providers like Direct Save and Zen Internet receiving below-average ratings. Concerns were raised about the value for money, particularly in light of mid-contract price increases, prompting calls for regulatory action to prevent such practices.
Broadband Genie’s comprehensive evaluation sheds light on both the successes and challenges facing the broadband market, emphasizing the importance of customer-centric services and fair pricing practices.