Parents feeling pressured to meet costs of return to school tech

Refurbed survey finds 88% worried about year-on-year increases in prices

Life

Pádraig Power, refurbed

A nationwide survey of more than 500 Irish parents has found that he rising cost of tech school supplies is resulting in a considerable financial burden. According to refurbed, 70% of Irish parents reported feeling pressured to provide tech for school or education, with 88% expressing anxiety about annual increases in technology prices.

The survey examined the requirement for tech in a school setting, the associated financial strain, and parents’ likelihood of purchasing a refurbished device. The growing necessity for tech in education was highlighted, with 79% of people indicating that they require an electronic device for school or educational purposes, a 4% increase from a similar survey conducted this time last year. Such devices could include a tablet, phone, or laptop. Increased financial pressure on families was also noted, with a 13% rise in feelings of pressure to provide technology for education. 27% of parents seek financial aid to afford the necessary devices, the same as 2023.

When asked about the preferred condition of an electronic device for education, 70% of respondents said they were more likely to purchase a refurbished device for school or university when made aware of the financial and sustainable benefits, a 2% increase from 2023.

The survey also found that 21% of parents were ready to pay between €101 and €200, 27% between €201-€300, 17% between €300-€400, 15% between €400-€500 and 16% open to purchasing a device for over €500. Tech spending constitutes a large portion of back-to-school budgets, which also cover uniforms, books, transport, and insurance.

Pádraig Power, senior marketing manager: global operations & Ireland at refurbed, said: “As consumers become more aware of the negative effects of electronic waste, while being presented with budget friendly and environmentally sound alternatives, we are proud to provide them with a sustainable choice; both financially and environmentally.”

To date, Irish customers have saved 270,000 tonnes of CO2, 900 tonnes of e-waste, and 95 billion litres of water from buying refurbished devices.

TechCentral Reporters

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