Wexford Businesses Still Using Outdated Broadband Risk Being Held Back, New Research Finds

Wexford businesses who are still reliance on outdated and slower copper broadband are at risk of reduced productivity, increased employee frustration and dissatisfied customers, according to newly published research. The independent research, commissioned by 100% fibre broadband operator, SIRO, examined the impact of poor broadband connectivity on business productivity, employee engagement and customer experience.   

Nationally, 34% of workers say they have experienced slow broadband at work, while one-in-four (25%), report poor broadband is directly affecting their ability to do their job effectively. 

A significant majority, almost 60%, of respondents felt that their home broadband was better than their broadband at their workplace.  

Customers are equally dissatisfied with 60% of respondents in Leinster reporting they have experienced poor and slow broadband at businesses with 24% saying they either would not or would be unsure of returning to a business with bad connectivity.   

SIRO has responded to the connectivity challenges faced by Irish SMEs, by launching a new full fibre product tailored specifically for this business sector. The product, known as LightPulse, provides 1 Gigabit download speeds and a boosted 250 Megabit upload speed over SIRO’s full fibre-to-the-premises network. It also comes with a service level agreement to ensure continuity of service. 

SIRO’s campaign launch features Wexford business and LightPulse user, Dental Care Ireland.  After experiencing issues with slow and unreliable connectivity, which disrupted daily operations, Dental Care switched to SIRO’s new LightPulse fibre broadband product, supported by broadband retailer Digiweb.  

The practice reports the difference has been immediate and significant from the start, with a straightforward and hassle-free set up, service tailored to their needs, and reliable connectivity that has enabled them to run the clinic efficiently.   

SIRO’s LightPulse product offers a bespoke broadband solution specifically for smaller companies, providing them with the high speeds and ongoing connectivity support essential for their daily business operations.  

SIRO’s is rolling out its full fibre broadband network is available in Wexford and towns across the Northwest. SIRO is a wholesaler and partners with broadband retail partners including Fastcom, Vodafone, Digiweb, Viatel, Blacknight, and Ivertec to deliver connectivity solutions for SMEs. Full details are available on SIRO’s website. 

Rachel Dempsey, Practice Manager in Dental Care Ireland Wexford said:  

“Our experience with LightPulse broadband, powered by SIRO has been excellent. From the start, getting set up was straightforward and hassle-free, and we were offered a service tailored to fit our needs. We would have no hesitation in recommending LightPulse to other small businesses looking for a broadband service they can truly depend on.” 

Commenting on the findings, SIRO’s Head of Enterprise, Aoife O’Reilly noted: 

“This independent research confirms the fact that Irish business, particularly smaller businesses, are still relying on outdated copper connections which can no longer support their business needs. 

“What is worrying for the longer-term growth and viability of these businesses, particularly in an era of connectivity-hungry AI, is that their poor connectivity is now affecting their workers and customers – both of which are fundamental to the success of any business. 

“It’s understandable with businesses challenged by a multitude of issues that connectivity can get left on the long finger, but today’s research clearly shows that poor broadband is now having a direct impact on the performance and growth of many Irish businesses. 

“Copper switch off is drawing ever closer, so rather than find themselves at a cliff edge, Irish businesses should check that they can avail of full fibre connectivity and proactively make the switch. Our research clearly shows that their employees, customers and bottom line will thank them for making the move,” added Ms. O’Reilly.