Is Virgin Mobile USA Recession-Proof?

In times of financial hardship, people tend to reevaluate their spending habits. Virgin Mobile USA surveyed their online community of customers to see exactly how those consumers tightened their belts during the economic downturn. The results gave them reason to believe that some people will cut back on food before they will give up their cell phones.

Using their online panel, Virgin Mobile spoke with thousands of their customers to find out where cell phones rate among financial priorities. They discovered that 68% decided to keep their cell phones, but cut back in other ways. 88% said they’re dining out less frequently and 79% are deferring big-ticket purchases.

The survey results got the attention of both Forbes Magazine and The Chicago Tribune, who wrote about the findings. Virgin Mobile panel member, Suzanne Peace, from Lombard, Illinois, spoke with The Chicago Tribune:

Suzanne Peace used to spend $109 per month on her cell phone with Sprint but switched to a “no contract” plan with Virgin Mobile USA, to pay by the minute. Peace’s story built brand awareness for thousands of potential customers who read about how Virgin Mobile USA could save them money, as it did for Suzanne Peace. Furthermore, the press gave Virgin Mobile USA a boost during a time when the falling economy meant tighter advertising budgets for the company.

Benefits of Virgin Mobile USA’s Online Panel:

• Quick hit research
• Trend spotting with a target audience
• Real time results
• Consumer engagement, available to all departments within the company
• Active brand ambassadors
• True testimonials

Uses for Virgin Mobile USA’s Online Panel:

• Advertisement Testing
• Marketing
• Product Testing
• Customer Communications

Don’t Take Our Word For It…

“The Vision Critical model empowers us to use the panel the way we want to – as more of a partnership approach rather than outsourcing our research. We love the team we’re working with.”
- The Virgin Mobile USA Customer Pulse Team

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