Plusnet backs prediction of fibre broadband growth

Plusnet has backed a recent report that claimed fibre optic broadband is set to enjoy a significant increase in demand throughout 2012.

Published by Point Topic on behalf of the Broadband Forum, the study showed more than eight per cent of consumers who signed up for broadband last year chose a fibre-based connection.

It also estimated the total number of broadband lines rose by 17.4 million during the three-month period, meaning there are now more than 581 million subscribers worldwide.

Oliver Johnson, chief executive of Point Topic, predicted particularly strong gains for hybrid services such as fibre-to-the-cabinet over the coming months.

"If the report's right, friends and family who don't have broadband will be more likely to sign up," commented Plusnet's Bob Pullen. "And if you're happy with your Plusnet broadband, you could recommend it."

Plusnet launched its range of fibre optic broadband packages in April 2011, offering customers speeds of up to 40Mbps.