Almost half of British consumers want to be able to use the internet wherever they go, and list pubs as one of the top locations they would like to surf the web.
A survey by T-Mobile has revealed that more mobile users than ever are buying and using the broadband features on their phones, with one in four T-Mobile subscribers being a broadband customer.
Richard Warmsley, Head of T-Mobile Internet and Entertainment services, said: “Mobile broadband has reached a tipping point and is now hitting the mainstream. The latest figures show that a staggering 44 per cent of us now want to use the internet on the go. Consumers are used to taking their laptops out and about with them and they expect to be connected.”
The survey also found that most office workers want to be able to work outside in the sunshine, especially over the summer months, making Wi-Fi pubs with a beer garden a perfect lure for people wanting to escape the dreariness of the office.
Neil Williams of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “Pubs are investing in Wi-Fi as they look for ways to reach new customers, especially after the smoking ban. They are a very appealing place to sit down and enjoy a drink or a coffee – it’s becoming increasingly common.”
Pubs and bars that offer a free Wi-Fi service tend to see an increase in trade from new customers and those that are more inclined to stay on the premises for longer.
Some establishments charge customers a on-off fee, or hourly rate for the use of the internet, where others will offer free access if customers buy a drink or a meal.