Consumer Trends Polls

No Signs of an Improved BC Economy This Back-to-School Season

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Vancouver, BC - It’s that time of year again – students are gearing up for back-to-school. Last year, the 2009 Back-To-School Shopping Study found that the economy appeared to be having an impact on shoppers. While only a small minority expected to spend less in 2009 compared to the previous school year, changes in shopping behaviours (such as looking for special deals, using coupons, buying store brands, shopping at thrift stores, etc.) were reported in reaction to the weak economy.     


RBC Consumer Outlook Index: Majority of American families plan to spend less than last year or nothing at all on back-to-school shopping

Thursday, August 05, 2010

New York, NY - Six-in-ten American families with children at home (62 per cent) say they plan to spend less this year than last or nothing at all on back-to-school shopping, according to the RBC Consumer Outlook Index. Although most families are cutting back, nine per cent say they actually plan to spend more and 29 per cent say they will spend about the same this year as last year on back-to-school items.     


Half of Americans Wish They Had a Pension

Wednesday, August 04, 2010

New York, NY – In a new survey about preparing financially for retirement, Ipsos found that even though seven out of ten (71%) of over 1,000 adults aged 25 and older said they were personally in control of their finances and make financial decisions themselves, half of those who are not yet retired (48%) believe they will not have enough money to maintain their current lifestyle in retirement and half of those already retired (53%) are concerned about their current financial situation.     


Young Adults Concerned About Retirement

Thursday, July 29, 2010

New York, NY - New research conducted by Ipsos finds that younger adults, aged 25-34, are already concerned about having enough money to see them through retirement. Likely in response to these retirement concerns, the research also suggests that this generation would be particularly receptive to alternative contribution options within employer sponsored 401(k) plans.     


Food and Beverages Rival Vitamins and Supplements for Consumer Interest in Products that Improve Digestion, Energy, Weight and Blood Sugar Levels

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

New York, NY – Consumer interest in food and beverages that offer better digestive health, increased energy, weight loss, and healthy blood sugar levels is greater than or similar to interest in vitamins and supplements that provide the same health and wellness benefits. This is the latest finding from a global study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods.     


Majority (51%) of Canadians Know the Big Mac Jingle

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Toronto, ON – The Big Mac has become so well known that a majority (51%) of Canadians know the Big Mac jingle, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of McDonald’s. In fact, 51% of Canadians can identify “two all beef patties special sauce lettuce cheese pickles onions on a sesame seed bun” as the Big Mac jingle from a list of four possibilities by people who have had a Big Mac in the past.     


Most Canadians Perceive Risk of Identity Theft

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Montreal, QC – Newly released research conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of ProtectionPower.ca has revealed that while awareness of identity theft is high within Canada (97%), there is little fear that they will be a victim of the crime in both the near-term (1 year, 19%) or the mid-term (5 years, 31%).     


Americans Love Their Gaming Consoles As Much As Their Cars

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

New York, NY – A new Ipsos study finds that gamers are as passionate about their gaming consoles as auto buyers are about their cars. In a study of over 3000 Americans, Ipsos Loyalty investigated Americans’ level of satisfaction with ten industries with which they typically interact. “Gaming consoles and cars stood out from the pack,” says Tim Keiningham, global chief strategy officer at Ipsos Loyalty. “It appears that America’s famous love affair with the car is being challenged by a newer technology.”     


Online Canadians Report a Large 35% Decline in the Amount of Email Received

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Calgary, AB – Online Canadians have reported a significant decline in the number of weekly emails received, according to the latest Ipsos Interactive Reid Report. The average number of email received in the past week (including spam) has declined by 35% from 198 in late 2008 to 129 today.     


The Paradox of Globalization

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Toronto, Canada—A new Ipsos/canada.com poll released today shows that as the world’s G-20 leaders gather in Toronto, Canada for their meeting, a global majority of consumer/citizens believe that, overall, globalization and expanded trade are good, and that investment by foreign companies is essential for growth and expansion. In fact only 39% say their government should restrict investment by foreign companies in their country even if it means fewer jobs will be created.     


One Half (52%) of Small Business Owners are Going Green

Friday, June 18, 2010

Toronto, ON – One half of Canadian small-business owners (52%) currently have (46%) or are considering (6%) developing a green plan or environmental policies, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of RBC.     


Cash-Back Tops the List of Desirable Credit-Card Rewards

Monday, June 14, 2010

Toronto, ON – With countless credit card issuers trying to draw consumers to their ranks with free merchandise, travel, and other perks and rewards, a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of RBC reveals that the simple gift of free cash appears to be the most desirable reward.     


Nearly 75 Percent of Online Shoppers Don’t Regularly Look for Online Coupons or Deals before Making Purchases

Tuesday, June 08, 2010

New York, N.Y. – Three-quarters (73%) of online shoppers are not regularly looking for online coupons or deals before making a purchase, according to a new Ipsos Public Affairs survey conducted on behalf of Offers.com.     


Can Technology Reduce Hospital and Doctor Wait Times?

Tuesday, June 08, 2010

Calgary, AB – Over one-quarter (28%) of online Canadians agree that they would prefer to have their first visit with their doctor via email, text messaging or webcam according to a recent Ipsos Interactive Reid report. Eight percent strongly agree that they would prefer to use one of these communications mediums, while 20% somewhat agree.     


Majority of Online Canadians Have Used a Webcam to Stay Connected

Thursday, June 03, 2010

Toronto, ON – A majority (56%) of online Canadians over the age of 18 have used a webcam to stay connected, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Microsoft. As might be expected, Canadians aged 18 to 34 are most likely (74%) to have used a webcam, while usage rates are lower among those aged 35 to 54 (51%) or older than 55 (45%).     


Ipsos OTX Launches Script Evaluation Division To Assess Playability And Marketability Of Feature Films

Thursday, June 03, 2010

Los Angeles, CA – The Worldwide Motion Picture Group at Ipsos OTX MediaCT has launched the highly anticipated Script Evaluation Division to assess the potential playability and marketability of films at the script stage. This service, designed to inform key decisions at the most nascent stages of a movie, benefits from the group’s extensive background in screenings, creative testing and tracking, as well as access to the largest sample of nationally representative moviegoers available and the proprietary normative data culled from it.     


Engaging CPG Consumers in the Digital Space

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

New York, NY – Global consumers are more likely to visit a CPG brand’s Website than become a Facebook fan or Twitter follower of a CPG brand, regardless of the CPG category. Still, CPG Websites lag behind Facebook sites in providing a forum for consumer feedback. While consumers consider Websites to be the place to go for information about a brand and promotional offers, they find Facebook to be the ideal platform for voicing their opinions and connecting with other customers. These are the latest findings from a global study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods.     


One in Twelve Canadian Parents State That Their Child Has Been Cyber-Bullied

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Calgary, AB – A recent study by Ipsos Reid, conducted on behalf of Trend Micro, has found that 8 percent of Canadian parents of children aged 7-17 indicate that their child had been cyber-bullied. Known instances of cyber bullying increase with the age of the child. The prevalence of cyber bullying increases to 11 percent among those aged 16-17. One-quarter (26 percent) of parents stated that they could not be sure if their child had been a victim. This number rises to 34 percent for parents of children between the ages of 13-15.     


Movie Downloading and Streaming Triples in 2009

Monday, May 17, 2010

New York, NY – It is no secret that watching long forms of professionally produced online digital video has become commonplace in the U.S. The ease and convenience of watching online video are rapidly contributing to a society where all forms of video are expected to be just clicks away. Even full-length movies, which previously required dedicated time and effort to find a specific movie, are joining the ease-and-convenience bandwagon. No longer is it necessary to go out and purchase a movie or rent one from a store; now consumers have a myriad of choices that are often faster and less expensive than their traditional counterparts.     


Nearly One Half (45%) of Canadians Considering a Used Car as their Next Vehicle

Friday, May 07, 2010

Toronto, ON – Thinking ahead to their next vehicle purchase, nearly one half (45%) of Canadians are considering purchasing used car as their next vehicle, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll commissioned by Kijiji. In fact, eight in ten (78%) Canadians have bought a used car in the past, either from a private individual (19%), a used car dealer (34%) or from both of these sources (25%). Only two in ten (22%) Canadians have never purchased a used car: 10% never have but would consider doing so, and just 12% of Canadians would not consider purchasing a used car in the future.     


Even with Sony’s Big “Move” and Gamers Expecting Microsoft’s “Natal,” Nintendo’s Wii Still Brings Game

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

San Francisco, CA – New survey data from Ipsos shows that the Nintendo Wii has maintained strong ‘share-of-mind’ among those in the market to buy gaming devices. The survey results, conducted among 1,000+ U.S. gamers age 18+, were collected in February on the heels of the 2009 holiday season (and before the release of the iPad).     


Summit Advises Seattle Marketers how to ‘Take Off’ with the New Consumer

Monday, April 26, 2010

Seattle, WA – Seattle marketers are about to get a closer look into the mindset of the New Consumer. Ipsos in Seattle is offering an afternoon of learning and invigorating discussion on Tuesday, May 18 at the Museum of Flight. The fourth annual Ipsos Knowledge Summit will feature a mix of senior level Ipsos researchers co-presenting with a panel of respected marketing leaders from throughout the Pacific Northwest.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. consumers still pessimistic about economy, but starting to show optimism about their personal finances

Thursday, April 22, 2010

New York, NY – A majority of Americans (82 per cent) feel their local economy will stay the same or weaken within the next six months, according to inaugural survey findings from the RBC Consumer Outlook Index, the new monthly survey of U.S. consumers released today by RBC. However, there are signs of growing confidence, with just over half of Americans (51 per cent) now feeling optimistic about their personal financial situations.     


For BC Consumers, Retailer Customer Service is King

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Vancouver, BC – Ipsos Reid’s 2010 Excellence in Retailing Study conducted jointly with Shelfspace – The Association for Retail Entrepreneurs, reveals that a retailer’s customer service goes a long way to win over potential customers in BC.     


Consumers See Little Difference between National and Store Brands

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

New York, NY – Consumers from around the world feel strongly that store brands are the same as, or better than, national brands at providing a variety of benefits. This is the latest finding from a study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods.     


Americans and Canadians Warming up to Internet Gambling

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Calgary, AB – One fact remains true: Internet gambling is for the most part, illegal in both the United States and Canada. But public thinking, awareness, and interest in the activity do not necessarily reflect that. A recent Ipsos Reid survey conducted online with American and Canadian respondents as part of a joint U.S./Canada lottery study found that, when compared to two years ago, fewer people in both countries are aware that Internet gambling is illegal and more would be willing to see it permitted as long as it were regulated.     


Lifestyles of the Business Elite

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

New York, NY – Media consumption is growing amongst the business leaders of America according to the latest Business Elite survey released today by Ipsos MediaCT. The uncertain economic conditions of recent years have made access to business news more important than ever for the most powerful business people.     


Many Americans’ Next Car Will Be a Used Car

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

New York, NY – Thinking about their next car purchase, Americans are most likely to say they’ll wait until their car doesn’t run anymore and then will buy used (30%), according to a new telephone survey of over 1,000 U.S. adults conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of CarMax. In addition, 7% say that they are ready for a new car, but will buy a used one to be smart.     


British Columbians Placing Less Emphasis on Environmental Factors in Store Choice Decision

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Vancouver, BC – Results from Ipsos Reid’s 2010 Retailers and the Environment Study reveals that fewer British Columbians view a retailer’s environmental actions as a key factor in choosing where they shop compared to two years ago.     


Weekly Internet Usage Overtakes Television Watching

Monday, March 22, 2010

Calgary, AB – Ipsos reports that for the first time ever in their tracking research, the weekly Internet usage of online Canadians has moved ahead of the number of hours spent watching television. This latest finding comes from the Inter@ctive Reid Report, a syndicated Ipsos Reid study that tracks online Canadians usage of the Internet. Overall, online Canadians are now spending more than 18 hours a week online, compared to 16.9 hours watching television. Internet usage is up from 14.9 hours last year. The number of hours watching television also experienced an increase in the last year, rising from 15.8 hours. Other media, such as newspapers, radio and magazines have all remained relatively stable in the last year.     


Home Purchasing Intentions Move Full Steam Ahead

Monday, March 08, 2010

Toronto, ON – The 17th annual RBC Housing Survey conducted by Ipsos Reid has revealed that home-buying intentions are moving full steam ahead as one in ten (10%) Canadians say that they are very likely to buy a home in the next two years, up from 7% just two years ago. Furthermore, the proportion who says they’re somewhat likely to purchase in the next two years has risen from 16% to 21% over the past two years. Among those who are likely to buy, three quarters (76%) are leaning towards a resale home, while 24% plan on buying a new home.     


Poll of Merchants with Credit/Debit Capabilities Rates TD Ahead of the Curve in Satisfaction With Primary Acquirer

Friday, March 05, 2010

Toronto, ON – A poll of over 500 businesses that use debit and credit card transactions has placed TD ahead of the curve when it comes to rating the level of satisfaction that merchants have with their primary acquirer, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of TD.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. consumer confidence heats up again in March

Thursday, March 04, 2010

New York, NY - Consumer confidence levels rallied this month after taking a tumble in February, according to the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. Buoyed by consumers' upbeat evaluations of their current economic condition and their positive outlook for the job market, the RBC Index for March stands at 58.2, an 18.8 point increase from February's 39.4 reading.     


Food, Glorious (Canadian) Food

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Toronto, ON – In order to control their food bill, eight in ten (80%) Canadians are cooking at home more often, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Dietitians of Canada. Likely in order to save money due to the struggling economy over the past year, many Canadians are also checking weekly flyers for sales or using coupons (76%), going without more costly food (49%), buying in bulk (44%), buying from the farmer’s market (27%), and growing their own garden (24%). Just 4% of Canadians aren’t employing any of these cost-cutting tactics. Nine in ten (87%) ‘agree’ (50% strongly/37% somewhat) that they sometimes don’t buy certain food because it costs too much.     


From Dialed-in to Mobile, Canada’s Digital Economy Continues to Evolve

Monday, January 25, 2010

Calgary, AB – For 15 years, Ipsos Reid has been covering the Canadian Internet user and in that time, one thing is very clear – the country has embraced the online world. 2010 marks the 15-year anniversary of the Ipsos Canadian Inter@ctive Reid Report, an ongoing study that monitors Canadian Internet behaviours and attitudes on a monthly basis.     


Advertisers are Doing Their Part to Jump Start the Economy as Two in Three (69%) Canadians Believe Advertisers Play an Important Role in Encouraging Consumer Spending

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Toronto, ON – Advertisers are apparently doing their part to jump-start a sluggish economy, as two in three (69%) Canadians agree that ‘advertising plays an important role in encouraging consumer spending’, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Institute of Communication Agencies.     


RBC CASH Index: New year off to strong start: U.S. consumer confidence reaches highest level since September 2008

Thursday, January 14, 2010

New York, NY - After declining throughout much of 2009, American consumer confidence improved sharply this month, returning to levels not seen since the financial crisis began in September 2008, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. Driven by the largest-single-month gain in expectations for jobs since the inception of the Index eight years ago, the RBC Index for January 2010 stands at 58.3, up 19.3 points from its December 2009 reading of 39.0.     


Most BC and Alberta Residents Have Abandoned Last Year's Fitness Resolution

Wednesday, January 06, 2010

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid online poll conducted on behalf of Fitness Town Canada reveals that British Columbia and Alberta residents haven’t done a good job at keeping up with their fitness and healthy lifestyle resolutions from last New Year’s. Only one-third (33%) of those who made a fitness or healthy lifestyle resolution say they are still sticking to it, with British Columbians (37% sticking to it) doing a little better than Albertans (27 sticking to it). One-quarter (24%) of those making a resolution kept it for a month or less. Another quarter (26%) kept their resolution for two to three months, and 16% kept at it for four to eleven months.     


RBC Canadian Consumer Outlook Index Rises as Fewer Shoppers Delaying Major Purchases; Job Anxiety Drops

Monday, January 04, 2010

Toronto, ON – The RBC Canadian Consumer Outlook index has been given a shot in the arm over the last month rising from its baseline of 100 points to 108 points, in part driven by consumers being less reluctant to delay their major purchases and a significant drop in job anxiety. The RBC CCO is a monthly national survey of consumers' attitudes on the current and future state of local and national economies, personal financial situations, savings and confidence to make large purchases and investments.     


Majority (65%) Says they were at Least Somewhat Affected by the Recession, But Three Quarters (73%) ‘Optimistic’ That 2010 Will Be a Good Year for Creating Jobs and Getting People Back to Work

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Toronto, ON– 2009 was a tough year for many Canadians, with job losses mounting, investments falling in value and a new-found sense of frugality. In fact, a new Ipsos Reid poll found that a majority (65%) of Canadians said that the economy affected them either ‘a lot’ (18%) or ‘somewhat’ (47%). Conversely, just one in three (35%) indicate the economy didn’t really affect them (26%), or not at all (9%).     


Among Those Who Will Shop on Boxing Day This Year, Four in Ten (41%) Online Canadians Will do a Portion of Their Boxing Day Shopping Online, Up From 34% Last Year

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Toronto, ON – In an effort to avoid the headaches often associated with boxing-day shopping, among the three quarters (73%) of Canadians who haven’t ruled out shopping on boxing day this year, four in ten (41%) will purchase something online (up from 34% last year) according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of PayPal. Among those that will, 5% will make all of their purchase online, while 42% will make some online, and 52% hardly any, perhaps just making one or two purchases.     


Most Think They Can’t Vacation for Less than $100 Per Person, Per Day

Friday, December 18, 2009

Toronto, ON – Despite the inclination to continue taking trips, the vast majority don’t believe this can be done for less than $100 per person, per day according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Trip Harbour. When asked how much they thought it would cost to vacation at a resort hotel in North America, six in ten (64%) thought it would amount to more than $100 per person, per day. Seven in ten (69%) thought a cruise vacation in the Caribbean would run a tab of more than $100 per day, while over eight in ten (84%) thought a cruise in Europe would cost more than $100 per day.     


So Canada, What Gives…….

Monday, December 14, 2009

Calgary, AB – A new study on Online Charitable Giving by Ipsos Reid has found that over two-thirds (68%) of online Canadians have sponsored someone in a fundraising event in the past year. Other popular forms of donation include adding a donation to a bill at a store (60%), buying a product from a retail store with a portion going to charity (58%), and buying a lottery ticket with a portion going to a charity (57%). Generally, women are more likely to donate through most methods than men. Interestingly, online Canadians from lower income households are significantly more likely to have donated by buying products from a charity and by giving to street interceptors. In contrast, higher income households are significantly more likely to sponsor someone in a fundraising event and attend a benefit dinner or event. Buying lottery tickets with a portion going to a charity also increases with household income.     


RBC CASH Index: Season of good cheer: U.S. consumer confidence twice as strong as a year ago

Thursday, December 10, 2009

New York, NY - After sliding for much of the fall, consumer confidence climbed in the past month and is now more than twice as strong as it was a year ago, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. Driven by a strong upswing in expectations for the near-term economic future, the RBC Index for December 2009 stands at 39.0, up 8 points from November's 30.2 reading. A year ago, in December 2008, the RBC Index stood at 15.3.     


Thanksgiving travelers go ‘cold turkey’ on hotel stays and air travel

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

Bellevue, WA – In a snapshot poll taken in the three days leading up to the American Thanksgiving break, Ipsos Marketing’s travel and tourism division found that Thanksgiving travelers have not deviated much from their usual travel plans, except that some traveled smarter.     


Many Canadian Online Shoppers Taking Advantage of U.S. Black-Friday Deals

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Toronto, ON – Many online Canadians are taking advantage of the official start of the American holiday-shopping season from the comfort of their own home, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Visa. Six in ten (57%) Canadians have shopped online at a Canadian or American website in the last year, with one half (48%) shopping from a Canadian retailer and three in ten (29%) having made a purchase from an American website.     


'Tis the Season for Shopping for British Columbians - But Is this the Season for Spending?

Monday, November 23, 2009

Vancouver, BC – ‘Tis the season for opening wallets for gifts, entertainment, travel, and celebrations, but will shoppers’ spending change during the holiday given the current state of economy? To find out, Ipsos Reid launched a new study to examine the purchase behaviour of adult British Columbians when it comes to shopping during the 2009 holiday season.     


Canadian Post Secondary Education (2)

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Vancouver, BC – An Ipsos Reid online poll of 1,493 adult Canadians reveals that Canadians hold quite strong views on the future importance of having a post-secondary credential if one wants to succeed or get ahead in life. And, a good number of them are considering taking on further studies in the near future.     


Western Canadian Views on the Oil and Gas Industry

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Calgary, AB – Canada’s oil and gas industry is centered in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin with Alberta accounting for over 80% of our country’s domestic petroleum production. Ipsos Reid recently conducted research with residents of major producing regions / communities within the WCSB to measure public perceptions of the upstream petroleum industry.     


Alberta Views on Electricity

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Calgary, AB – The subject of electricity transmission has occupied a prominent place in Alberta media throughout much of 2008 and 2009. Ipsos Reid conducted survey based research in three communities at the centre of this issue (Calgary, Sherwood Park and Fort McMurray) to explore the views of local residents on some of the matters at the heart of the ongoing debate.     


Four in Ten (42%) Casino Visitors in the US Spending Less than Last Year

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Calgary, AB – Casinos in the United States continue to feel the pinch from the downturn in the economy according to the results of an Ipsos study of casino visitors released today.     


Canadian Boomers and Their Aging Parents

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Vancouver, BC – An Ipsos Reid telephone poll commissioned by the BC Institute of Technology’s Living Laboratory reveals Canadian Boomers aged 45-60 are dealing with a number of important issues when it comes to their aging parents.     


Media Mix Changing For Canadian Marketers

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Toronto, ON – The change in media spending patterns among Canada's marketing and advertising industries continues according to a new Ipsos Reid poll released today. In fact, when asked to assess the pace of change in the media mix over the past two years, 92% of respondent Marketers (36% a lot/56% a little) and 88% of respondent Agency leaders (36% a lot/52% a little) indicate that virtually nothing has gone untouched.     


US Consumer Travel Intentions

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Bellevue, WA – New study results by research industry giant Ipsos helps clients identify trends into the attitudes and behaviors of the leisure and business traveler.     


RBC CASH Index: Consumer confidence drops sharply on weak economic news

Thursday, November 05, 2009

New York, NY - Consumer confidence fell across the board in the past month, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. The RBC Index for November 2009 stands at 30.2, down 21.6 points from October's 51.8 reading. Higher gas prices, slumping retail sales, volatile stock markets and continuing joblessness resulted in the sharpest one-month drop in consumer sentiment since last autumn's financial crisis.     


Canadians Becoming Less Concerned With Online Security

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

Calgary, AB – A new study released by Ipsos Reid examining Online Privacy and Security has found that 34% of online Canadians are ‘very concerned’ with their Online Security, a decline of 13% from 2003. However, those online Canadians who state that they are ‘somewhat concerned’ increased by 11%. The overall level of concern (80%) remains consistent with 2003.     


Internet Access in Canada Reaches All Time High

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Calgary, AB – A new study released by Ipsos Reid examining Online Trends and Activities has found that over eight in ten Canadians (82%) now have Internet access at home. This represents a 6% point increase from Q2, 2008 and a 4% point increase from Q4, 2008.     


Changes in Employment Are the Life Events Most Likely to Prompt Women to Purchase a New Car

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

New York, NY – Purchasing a new car can often be triggered by major life events, particularly changes in employment, according to a new survey of over 500 women conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of CarMax. Over half of women say that a change in their career – either taking a new job (37%) or retiring (23%) – would be most likely to motivate them to purchase a car.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. consumer confidence bounces back in October but remains fragile

Thursday, October 08, 2009

New York, NY, October 8, 2009 - Propelled by diminishing concerns about current personal finances and job security, U.S. consumer sentiment reached a twelve-month high in October, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. Gains were made in every facet of consumer sentiment, with overall consumer confidence climbing 11.8 points. As a result, the RBC Index stands at 51.8 this month, compared to 40.0 in September. This marks a 50-point improvement over the all-time low of 1.6 observed in February 2009.     


A Check-up on the Habits and Values of North America’s Young Adults (Part 2)

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Calgary, AB – Americans like football, MySpace, and text messaging. Canadians like hockey, Facebook, and playing the lottery. And both just can’t get enough of the Internet. These are some of the findings from an Ipsos study that investigated the behaviors, lifestyles and habits of American and Canadian young adults ages 18-34, the emerging market of young consumers.     


A Check-up on the Habits and Values of North America’s Young Adults (Part 1)

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Calgary, AB – When looking at the values and lifestyles of North American young adults ages 18-34, there is a clear line of division: the U.S.-Canada border. According to the latest study from Ipsos, there are marked differences between American and Canadian young adults when it comes to lifestyle decisions and values.     


Three Quarters of Child Internet-Users in Young Families On the Internet By Age Seven

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Toronto, ON – Three quarters (75%) of Canadian children in young families who use the Internet were on the Net by the age of seven, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of TELUS. An additional two in ten (20%) child Internet-users were online by the age of 10, while just 5% were older than 10 when they started using the Internet.     


Digital Video Website Usage, and Mix of Revenue Models, Expanding Rapidly

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

New York, NY — It’s no secret that online digital video has become mainstream in the U.S. In fact, 67% of online Americans have now streamed or downloaded digital video content (“digital video users” as described here), according to recent data from Ipsos MediaCT’s MOTION study. While YouTube continues to dominate the short video clip market and iTunes continues to do brisk business via downloads, the streaming of longer running content, such as TV shows and movies, has become more popular due to sites such as Hulu and Netflix.     


RBC CASH Index: Dog days: U.S. consumer sentiment flat at summer's end, according to RBC IndexPositive economic news and rising markets driving improved consumer confidence, but Jobs Index remains low

Thursday, September 03, 2009

New York, NY - Although consumers' hopes for their local economies and personal finances improved in the past month, the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index rose by only 2.5 points to stand at 40.0 -- up from a 37.5 reading in August. While the Index reached its highest level since May, a close reading of the results finds consumers remaining cautious about economic recovery.     


It's Back to School in BC - and Back to Shopping?

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Vancouver, BC – With so many advertisements announcing back-to-school shopping, it is hard for consumers to ignore the fact that September is just around the corner and another school year is about to begin. As such, a new Ipsos Reid study in British Columbia was conducted to gain insights into shoppers’ attitudes and behaviours when it comes to purchasing items for the 2009/2010 school year.     


"Value" Tops Shopping Lists in the Aisles of Consumer Packaged Goods Consumption

Thursday, August 13, 2009

New York, NY - Value is a top priority when purchasing consumer packaged goods products, according to findings from a study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods. When asked what thoughts crossed their minds when making decisions to purchase food, household and personal products on their most recent grocery shopping trip, almost two-thirds (64%) of global consumers indicated value for the money.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. consumer sentiment rebounds from summer doldrums, according to RBC IndexDeclining expectations for the future drive drop in confidence

Friday, August 07, 2009

New York, NY - Led by rising investment confidence and expectations for the future, the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index show a sharp upswing in consumer sentiment for August 2009, reversing the slide of the previous two months. The RBC CASH Index for August stands at 37.5, a 15.1 point increase from July's 22.4 reading. Although consumer sentiment remains volatile, the Index saw improvement in all four of its sub-indices, which measure consumers' views of current conditions, their expectations for the future and their confidence in investing and job security.     


Survey First to Quantify Global Customer Complaints

Wednesday, August 05, 2009

Toronto, Canada — A new global poll issued today by Ipsos Reid for Complaints Are Us Inc. indicates that four in ten (38%) people surveyed in 23 nations have complained about a product or service in the past year.     


TV Show/ Movie Streaming by Americans has Increased Dramatically in the Past Six Months

Wednesday, August 05, 2009

New York, NY — Americans with Internet access are streaming more TV shows and movies than ever before. Recent data from Ipsos MediaCT’s MOTION study illustrates that in the past 30 days, 26% of online Americans have streamed a full-length TV show and 14% have streamed a full-length movie. This is more than two times the levels measured in September 2008. Not surprisingly, young adults 18 to 24 years of age have been the most ardent supporters of this medium. What is surprising is just how supportive they are – in the past 30 days, 30% have streamed a full-length movie and 51% have streamed a full-length TV show, which represent dramatic increases from last year.     


Americans Prefer Selling Their Car Privately or Trading It In at a Dealership

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

New York, NY – Over a third of Americans (36%) say that the best way to sell their car would be to do it privately, while nearly as many (30%) would opt to trade it in at a dealership, according to a new survey of over 1,000 U.S. adults conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of CarMax. Others mostly think that it would be best to place an ad – either online (13%) or in the newspaper (9%).     


Canadian Information Flow Ebb's Passport Demand

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Vancouver, BC – While the majority (72%) of Canadians planning to travel in the next six months hold a passport (68% a Canadian passport, 4% a foreign passport), new regulations regarding entry in to the United States are not spurring those without a passport (28%) into action. Among those who do not hold a passport, over six-in-ten (62%) say the new Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is not impacting their decision to apply for a passport. These are just some of the findings from a joint Ipsos Reid/Tourism Industry Association of Canada survey with adult Canadian residents who plan to travel in the next six months.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. consumer sentiment continues downward slide, according to RBC CASH Index

Thursday, July 16, 2009

New York, NY - Led by a dramatic decline in the expectations of U.S. consumers for the near future of the U.S. economy, the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index show a marked downward shift for July 2009, continuing the slide begun last month. The RBC CASH Index for July 2009 stands at 22.4, an 11.9 point decline from June's 34.3 reading.     


What Have You Done for Me Lately?

Thursday, July 16, 2009

New York, NY - A recent study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods shows that while global consumers do not find the consumer packaged goods sector to be particularly innovative, there is high demand for new food, household and personal products in the market.     


American and British Consumers Are Highly Receptive to Smart Grid Technology Concept

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

New York, NY – A recent study gauging U.S. and UK consumer awareness and attitudes towards Smart Grid Technology found that while most were previously unfamiliar with Smart Grid technology (74% in the U.S. and 90% in the UK), once exposed to a description of Smart Grid Technology, respondents in both countries were receptive to the idea of Smart Grid. Three in five respondents in both the U.S. (64%) and UK (60%) would change their electricity consumption behavior with the adoption of Smart Grid according to a poll conducted by Ipsos for GE.     


Three in Ten (28%) Online Canadians Have Sent Money Electronically In the Last Year

Monday, June 22, 2009

Toronto, ON — Three in ten online Canadians (28%) have sent money to someone else online within the last year, either through a bank’s website or a third party, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of PayPal. Canadians aged 18 to 34 are much more likely (37%) to indicate that they have sent money electronically than those aged 35 to 54 (23%) or aged 55+ (26%). Interestingly, men (31%) are more likely than women (25%) to say the same.     


What’s Your Child Doing on Facebook?

Monday, June 22, 2009

Calgary, AB - A new study shows from Ipsos Reid shows that online Canadian teens are significantly more likely to have a social network profile than online Canadian adults. Over three-quarters (76%) of online Canadians teens aged 12-17 now have a social network profile, up from 50% in 2007. The rate of increase is higher than that reported for the online adult population, which increased from 39% to 56% over the same time period. These are some of the findings from “Online Teens: What’s the Next Generation Doing Now,” a new study conducted and released by Ipsos Reid. Study author Mark Laver noted, “Teenagers are sometimes thought as societal barometers for new trends and embracing new technology. Online teenagers’ use of social networks has expanded rapidly in the past 18 months; however, their parents’ usage hasn’t kept up. Consequently, some parents will have little to no clue about what their children are doing online.”     


Saving the Environment without Sacrificing Convenience: Global Consumers Want the Best of Both Worlds

Thursday, June 18, 2009

New York, NY - A recent study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods shows that global consumers care about the state of the natural world but still relish the conveniences of the modern world. Many are taking the environment into account in their daily behaviors and purchasing decisions, but are weighing the impact on convenience as well.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. Consumer Sentiment Sags in June but Expectations for the Future Improve

Thursday, June 11, 2009

New York, NY - Consumers' economic enthusiasm faded this month as the jobless rate reached a 26-year high, gas pump prices climbed almost daily and the initial fervor for the government's economic remedies waned, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index.     


Freshness, Health and the Environment Matter Most in the Kitchens of the World

Thursday, June 11, 2009

New York, NY – A new study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods indicates that global consumers have readjusted their priorities regarding food products. Fresher ingredients. Increased health benefits. More environmentally friendly packaging. These are the top priorities global consumers are placing on food companies.     


Downturn in the Economy Also Affecting Lottery Players

Monday, June 01, 2009

Calgary, AB – As the global economic crisis rages on, it appears that Americans are reducing their spending on lottery products as a method of cutting back personal expenses. A recent Ipsos survey conducted in March among lottery players indicated that nearly half (46%) have reduced their lottery spending, with 38% admitting to spending less on lottery games and 8% cutting them out entirely.     


Two in Ten (17%) Cellphone and Smartphone Users Typically Access The Internet on a Daily Basis From Their Phone

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Toronto, ON — A new online poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Rogers Wireless has revealed that nearly two in ten (17%) online Canadians who own either a cellphone or a smartphone typically access the internet from their phone on a daily basis. With seven in ten (69%) online Canadians indicating that they have either a cellphone (65%) or a smartphone (7%), or both, the number of Canadians accessing the online world through their mobile device on a daily basis likely numbers in the millions.     


95% of U.S. Travel Plans Held During Swine Flu Outbreak

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

New York, NY - Although concerns surrounding the outbreak of novel influenza A (H1N1), also known as the Swine Flu, were prevalent among U.S. residents, 95% of those who had plans to travel between May to August, 2009, kept those plans intact. This is just one of the findings from an Ipsos survey conducted among 1,149 adult U.S. residents during the period May 1-5, 2009.     


97% of Canadians’ Travel Plans Held During Swine Flu Outbreak

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Vancouver, BC - Although concerns surrounding the outbreak of novel influenza A (H1N1), also known as the Swine Flu, were prevalent among Canadian residents, 97% of those who had plans to travel between May to August, 2009, kept those plans intact. This is just one of the findings from an Ipsos Reid survey conducted among 1,713 adult Canadian residents during the period May 1-5, 2009.     


RBC CASH Index: Consumer Confidence Rises for Third Consecutive Month

Thursday, May 07, 2009

New York, NY - Driven by reduced concern about current economic conditions and diminishing fears of job loss, U.S. consumer sentiment continued to rebound this month, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index.     


Paper or Plastic…or Neither? British Columbians Prefer Bio-Degradable Plastic Bags

Wednesday, May 06, 2009

Vancouver, BC - Many retailers are rethinking their business practices as it relates to the environment, including their plastic bag policies. As such, a new Ipsos Reid study in British Columbia, examines consumers’ points-of-views when it comes to retailers and their actions to help preserve and protect the environment.     


Charitable Giving in BC

Tuesday, May 05, 2009

Vancouver, BC - A new Ipsos Reid survey of the BC public reveals that British Columbians have once again opened their wallets to support the many charities in the province (84% made a donation in 2008). However, current economic conditions are dampening prospects for donor dollars in the coming year; 32% of those surveyed are “less likely” to make a donation in 2009, and 24% of donors intend to give less money than they did in 2008.     


Majority of British Columbians Say Protecting the Environment Should be Given Priority Over Economic Growth

Monday, May 04, 2009

Vancouver, BC - Ipsos Reid, a sponsor of EPIC - the Sustainable Living Expo, released a poll today, revealing that despite the state of the economy, British Columbians feel the environment takes priority.     


Consumers Sacrifice New Products and Usual Brands During Economic Downturn

Thursday, April 30, 2009

New York, NY – Consumers around the world are more wary of trying new consumer goods products when they sense the economy is slowing down. This is the finding of a recent Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods study on global consumer attitudes and behavior that covered 18 countries around the world. In fact, more than half of global consumers shy away from new grocery, personal and household products during an economic downturn.     


British Columbian Retailers and Their Environmental Actions

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Vancouver, BC - A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Retail BC finds that a retailer’s actions to preserve and protect the environment is an important factor in store decision for most British Columbians, but that the percentage to whom it matters hasn’t changed in the past year. Three-quarters of British Columbians feel a retailer’s environmental actions are important when deciding where to shop on a day-to-day basis (74% with 21% very important and 53% somewhat important). Environmental actions are not of importance to the remaining one-quarter of the province’s residents (24% with 19% not very important and 5% not at all important). Very few are unsure of the importance they place (2%). This is statistically the same as results from a similar poll conducted in April 2008, where three-quarters of British Columbians reported that environmental actions are important in their store decision (77% with 24% very important and 53% somewhat important) and two-in-ten do not consider it to be important (22% with 17% not very important and 5% not at all important).     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. Consumer Confidence Rebounds in April, Boosted by Solid Increase in Expectations for the Future

Thursday, April 09, 2009

New York, NY - Reversing seven months of crumbling confidence, Americans' economic enthusiasm rallied this month, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index, which posted its first significant improvement since September 2008. Overall consumer confidence advanced 30.1 points, bringing the RBC CASH Index to 38.3 in April, compared to 8.2 in March.     


Most (95%) Potential Homebuyers Say Finding a Home with Low Energy Consumption is an ‘Important’ Consideration

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Toronto, ON – Three in (27%) ten Canadians say that they’re at least ‘somewhat likely’ to purchase a home in the next two years, according to an Ipsos Reid poll conducted behalf of RBC, and most (95%) of these potential homebuyers say that finding a ‘home with low energy consumption’ is an ‘important’ (54% very/41% somewhat) consideration.     


For the Love of Clean: A Majority (54%) of Canadians Enjoy Cleaning Their Homes

Monday, March 16, 2009

Toronto, ON – The results of a new Ipsos Reid poll, conducted on behalf of P&G, have revealed that a majority (54%) of Canadians ‘enjoy’ (12% very much/42% somewhat) cleaning their home. In fact, two in ten (19%) Canadians say they spend at least an hour a day cleaning and tidying their home, with 8% spending more than an hour and a half of their time daily on this activity.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. Consumer Confidence Weak, But Ticks Up Slightly

Thursday, March 12, 2009

New York, NY - Despite mounting job losses and a stock market spiraling toward a 12-year low, U.S. consumer sentiment edged up this month according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. The survey, which measured the attitudes of 1,000 Americans earlier this week, found that consumer sentiment remained very low, but stable. As a result, the overall RBC CASH Index stands at 8.2 for March 2009, up slightly from 1.6 in February, the lowest level on record since the inception of the Index in 2002.     


Two in Three (65%) Say Current Housing Market is a Buyer’s Market

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Toronto, ON – Opportunity awaits as two in three (65%) Canadians believe the current real-estate market in Canada is a buyer’s market, according to the 16th Annual RBC/Ipsos Reid Housing Poll. Nearly three in ten (27%) say they’re ‘likely’ (9% very/18% somewhat) to purchase a home within the next two years’, up 4 points from last year and the largest single-year increase since 2001. The proportion that says they’re ‘very likely’ to purchase a home is up from 7% last year to 9% this year. But Canadians are split on whether buying conditions will change to be more favourable within the next year, such that it makes more sense to wait until next year (52%) or buy now (48%).     


For Companies in Unpopular Industries, the Silver Lining Is a Greater Opportunity to Stand Out

Thursday, February 26, 2009

New York, NY – Since 2006, Ipsos Public Affairs has been studying and tracking the corporate reputation of over one hundred leading corporations in the United States, and of over thirty different economic sectors or industries with a research program named I-Rep American Public.     


Economic Conditions Causing Many (28%) Boomers to Delay Retirement

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Ottawa, ON – According to the 19th annual Ipsos Reid/RBC RRSP poll, three in ten (28%) boomers indicate that they plan on delaying the date of their retirement due to the current economic conditions. The most commonly-mentioned timeframes for delay are one to two years (43%) or three to five years (37%), although some are delaying their retirement for 5 or more years (9%). Just 3% will delay their retirement for less than a year.     


Travelers’ Cost Savings Techniques Challenge Industry

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

New York, NY – Fasten your seatbelts as the travel industry is facing strong headwinds. According to a recent survey conducted among U.S. adults by Ipsos’ Travel and Tourism division, both business and leisure travel are expected to see deepening shrinkage in 2009. The survey shows four in ten (39%) business travelers are saying that the financial crisis will cause them to reduce their overall business trips and/or expenditures, and just over half (52%) of leisure travelers plan to reduce their overall leisure trips and/or expenditures, compared to 2008.     


British Columbians Expect Home Prices to Continue Dropping In 2009, But Outlook Is Improving

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Vancouver, BC – According to the recently released Ipsos Reid BC Home Buyers report, four-in-ten (42%) British Columbians expect housing prices to be lower in twelve months, down from 57% in November. Overall, British Columbians are forecasting a 3.0 percent average drop in home prices in their community, an improvement from the end of 2008 when a 6.7 percent decline was projected. Three-in-ten (32%) predict prices will remain the same while two-in-ten (20%) predict prices will be higher.     


Majority (61%) Of Canadians Not Updating Their Home Insurance After Purchasing Jewellery or Other Valuables

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Toronto, ON — It appears that many Canadians are not taking the necessary steps to properly insure their newly purchased valuables, according to an Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of RBC Insurance. While in the past two years leading up to the survey three in ten (30%) Canadians had bought or acquired something of value such as jewellery, art or other items, most did not take the necessary steps to ensure that their newly-acquired valuables were properly insured.     


Are The Affluent Still Giving Back?

Friday, February 06, 2009

New York, NY – Are Americans at the higher end of the economic ladder continuing to share their wealth with others less fortunate? A recent Mendelsohn Affluent Poll set out to find out. As a follow-up to its well-known and well-respected Mendelsohn Affluent Survey (soon to be fielded for its 33rd consecutive year), Ipsos Mendelsohn recently conducted an online poll among affluent adults at year-end 2008. In it, some 500 people in households with household incomes of $100,000 or more were asked about their recent charitable donations.     


What’s Worrying the Affluent?

Friday, February 06, 2009

New York, NY – As a follow-up to its well-known and well-respected Mendelsohn Affluent Survey (soon to be fielded for its 33rd consecutive year), Ipsos Mendelsohn recently conducted an online poll among affluent adults at year-end 2008. In it, some 500 people in households with household incomes of $100,000 or more were asked to candidly assess and share their current concerns and opinions about the changing world around them.     


Three Quarters (74%) of Ontarians Dining in More Often in Order to Reduce their Expenses

Thursday, February 05, 2009

Toronto, ON – It appears that the slowdown in the economy is affecting the dining habits of most Ontarians, with a new Ipsos Reid poll of household primary grocery shoppers revealing that three quarters (74%) ‘agree’ (39% strongly/35% somewhat) that they are ‘dining in more often in order to reduce their expenses’. Just one quarter (26%) ‘disagrees’ (7% strongly/19% somewhat) that this is the case.     


Normal Programming Will Resume Shortly... For Those That Notice?

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Calgary, AB – “Online Media: All Change!”, a new study released by Ipsos Reid, has found that online Canadians are multi-tasking for almost one-half of the time they spend on the Internet. Study author Mark Laver noted that “this is a very interesting finding in itself, particularly from an advertiser’s perspective. With such a high degree of multi-tasking occurring, how can an advertiser (online or offline) be sure their message is getting through? Keeping this in mind, advertisers and media companies need to ensure that they have the appropriate tracking mechanisms as well as unique and different material in order to break through in this cluttered environment.”     


Almost Three-Quarters (70%) of Online Canadians Have Visited a Healthcare Website in the Past Year

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Calgary, AB – A new study released by Ipsos Reid, Online Healthcare: Coming of Age, has found that almost three-quarters (70%) of online Canadians have visited a healthcare website in the past year. This figure is up slightly (+4%) from the last time the study was conducted in 2002. Study author Mark Laver noted that “this is another confirmation that the Internet has come of age as a meaningful resource tool for those online.”     


Current Economic Conditions Are Already Impacting Banking And Finance Activities of Canadians Aged 25 to 54

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

Vancouver, B.C. — A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Coast Capital Savings shows that current economic conditions have had a financial impact on most Canadians aged 25 to 54 with a chequing and/or savings account. Between one-third and two-thirds of Canadians agree that they are doing each of the following banking and finance related activities specifically because of the state of economic conditions:     


Despite Recession, Majority Intends to Spend Same (51%) or More (7%) This Year on Holiday Gifts

Monday, December 22, 2008

Toronto, ON – With a recession looming over Canada, a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Canwest News Service and Global Television has revealed that a majority of Canadians intend to spend either the same (51%) or more (7%) on holiday gifts for their friends and family this year than last. Just four in ten (39%), intend to spend less this year. Further, Canadians still appear to be in a generous spirit in spite of the economic slowdown, with most (53%) indicating that they will end up giving more than they receive. One quarter (22%) suggests they will give about the same amount of gifts as they receive this year, while some will give less than they receive (6%) this holiday season.     


From Long Lines to Online: One in three (34%) Boxing Day Shoppers Will Make a Portion of their Purchases Online

Monday, December 22, 2008

Ottawa, ON – As we approach one of the biggest shopping days of the year, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of PayPal, it appears that many (33%) online Canadians are avoiding long lines and making some of their Boxing Day purchases online this year.     


Longer Form Content (Movie/TV Show) Streaming Continues Strong Growth

Thursday, December 18, 2008

New York, NY — Americans have embraced streaming video, often at the expense of video downloading. Recent data from Ipsos MediaCT’s MOTION study confirms that nearly six in ten (57%) U.S. Internet users 12 years of age and older have streamed video in the past 30 days – 7% higher versus the end of 2007. In comparison, one in five (22%) have downloaded video in the past 30 days.     


Are B.C. Motor Vehicle Buyers/Leasers As Knowledgeable As They Think They Are?

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Vancouver, BC - Nine-in-ten British Columbians who either bought or leased a motor vehicle during the past 12 months or are very likely to do so in the next 12 months say they feel confident (87%) and informed (89%) when buying/leasing a vehicle, but a new Ipsos Reid poll suggests they might not know as much as they think they do.     


RBC Cash Index: U.S. Consumer Confidence Hovers Near Six-year Low

Friday, December 12, 2008

New York, NY - Consumer sentiment plunged to a near all-time low as Americans continued to be bombarded with bleak economic news, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index.     


Online Canadians’ Inactive Accounts Could Put Them at Risk of Fraud Identity Theft

Tuesday, December 09, 2008

Toronto, ON – A new Ipsos-Reid poll conducted on behalf of Capital One has revealed that seven in ten (73%) are ‘concerned’ (29% very/43%) somewhat) about falling victim to identify theft through an online site, and a similar proportion (69%) are ‘concerned’ (29% very/40% somewhat) about the safety of their personal information being held in online accounts.     


Travel Market in the United States Heading South in 2009?

Thursday, December 04, 2008

New York, NY – A recent Ipsos poll conducted among U.S. adults has taken a look at the impact the current economic crisis in the United States is having on business and leisure travel across the country. The immediate impact is noticeable, and a continuation of the crisis into 2009 could see more leisure and business travelers significantly revising their plans.     


Most (83%) Small Business Owners Say They Have a ‘Better Quality of Life’ Since Starting their Business

Thursday, December 04, 2008

Markham, ON -- A new Ipsos Reid poll of Canadian small business owners, conducted on behalf of American Express, finds that nine in ten (89%) ‘agree’ (38% strongly/51% somewhat) that they ‘love to get up every day’ to do what they do. In fact, eight in ten (83%) ‘agree’ (31% strongly/52% somewhat) that ‘since they started their own business, they have enjoyed a better quality of life’. Despite being exposed to many risks as a result of opening their own business, nine in ten (91%) indicate that there are more rewards than risks associated with running their business. Clearly enjoying what they do, 93% say that they would do it all over again.     


Year Over Year Online Spending Drops 13% in Q3 2008

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Calgary, AB – Ipsos Reid’s long standing Interactive Reid study has found that year over year online spending dropped 13% among online Canadians in Q3, 2008. The study, which tracks consumer activities on the Internet, also found spending from Q2 to Q3 had dropped by 15%.     


British Columbians Expect Home Prices to Keep Falling, Say It’s Not a Good Time To Sell

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Vancouver, BC – The BC Home Buyers report, a new Ipsos Reid study, shows that 78% of British Columbians say it’s currently not a good (“not very good” or “not good at all”) time to sell a home. Nearly six-in-ten (57%) expect housing prices to be lower in a year’s time. Overall, British Columbians are forecasting a 6.7 percent decline in home prices in their community.     


RBC Cash Index: U.S. Consumer Sentiment Remains Under Siege After Plunging in October

Thursday, November 13, 2008

New York, NY - Although energy prices have declined sharply, consumer sentiment remains under siege due to persistent negative forces ranging from the escalating job crisis to the prolonged housing debacle and the growing credit crunch, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index.     


Ipsos Offers a New “World View” to Canadian Broadcasting Convention

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Ottawa, ON – Technology is changing our world, and no where is that picture clearer than in the world of broadcasting. This week, broadcasters from all across Canada assembled in Ottawa for the annual convention of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters. Mark Laver, Associate Vice President with Ipsos Reid in Calgary, was on hand to present findings from Ipsos’ Canadian Inter@ctive Reid Report, offering a glimpse into the future of the Internet and other new media.     


As Canadians (79%) try to Avoid Crowded Malls and Parking Lots This Holiday Season, Many (45%) are Turning Online to Find that Perfect Gift

Friday, October 31, 2008

Toronto, ON – As the holiday shopping season approaches, a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Amazon.ca has revealed that many Canadians do not appear to be looking forward to hitting the crowded malls this year to complete their holiday shopping. In fact, eight in ten (79%) ‘agree’ (44% strongly/35% somewhat) that they ‘don’t like crowded shopping malls during the holiday season, and so they try to avoid them’. Just two in ten (21%) ‘disagree’ (6% strongly/14% somewhat) with this sentiment.     


Small Businesses View Knowledge as Both a Key to Success and a Challenge

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Toronto, ON – Decision-makers at small and medium-sized businesses widely recognize the benefit of acquiring and sharing business information within their organization, but they also find it challenging according to a new Ipsos Reid survey conducted in Canada and Australia on behalf of Intel.     


A Quarter of American Homeowners Are Delaying the Purchase of a New or Existing Home Due to the Current Economic Climate

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

New York, NY (Oct. 29, 2008) – Over a quarter of homeowners (27%) say that the current U.S. economic environment is causing them to put their plans on hold for the purchase of a new or existing home, according to a new Ipsos Public Affairs poll conducted on behalf of Realogy.     


Despite Market Turbulence and Economic Turmoil, Housing Purchasing Intentions in Canada Hold Steady

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Toronto, ON – According to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of RBC in October, despite the turbulence and the turmoil of the current economic crisis, housing purchasing intentions are holding steady. Twenty-two percent (22%) of Canadians say they are ‘likely’ (7% very/15% somewhat) to purchase a home within the next two years, down only 1 point since January of this year.     


Online Video Streaming Going Mainstream

Monday, October 27, 2008

New York, NY - Over the past six months, the popularity of online video services has grown significantly with women and older consumers, helping close the age and gender gap within the burgeoning online video audience in the U.S. Recent data sourced from Ipsos MediaCT’s MOTION study illustrate the widespread appeal online video services have with the majority of today’s Internet users, and how streaming video in particular has helped build an audience with women and those aged 35 and older.     


Global Study Finds Majorities of Online Consumers are Concerned about Identity Theft and Fraud

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

New York, NY – Three-quarters of online consumers have some worry that they will fall victim to identity theft, according to a new Ipsos poll conducted in United States, Canada, France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom on behalf of PayPal.     


Talking About Charities 2008: Tracking Canadians' Opinions About Charities And The Issues Affecting Them

Monday, October 20, 2008

Calgary, AB – The fourth wave of an Ipsos Reid Public Affairs national public opinion poll conducted on behalf of The Muttart Foundation, finds that charities continue to garner high levels of trust. More than three-quarters (77%) of Canadians say they trust charities ‘a lot’ or ‘some,’ a number that has been consistent since 2000.     


American Express Survey Shows Majority of Canadian Small Business Owners are Not Panicking in the Wake of Economic Turmoil

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Markham, ON—As world economic markets tumble in turmoil, a new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid for American Express Canada reveals perspectives within Canada’s small businesses community: one in six (16%) Canadian small business owners are either worried about the short term viability of their business (9%) or pessimistic about the future of their business (7%) given the current economic situation.     


Changing Attitudes in High Altitudes at Tourism Conference

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Vancouver, BC - The Travel and Tourism Research Association’s Canadian Chapter is meeting in Victoria, BC this week for its annual conference. Conference attendees will be learning about changing attitudes in business travel from a Canadian travel and tourism research expert. Dave Pierzchala, Vice President with Ipsos Reid’s Travel and Tourism specialty, is presenting the latest findings from Ipsos’ annual syndicated Canadian Business Travel Study. The study, now in its 15th year, takes a close look at the Canadian business traveller.     


RBC Cash Index: U.S. Consumer Confidence Experiences Largest Single Month Decline, as Americans' Expectations for the Future Plummet

Thursday, October 09, 2008

New York, NY - The implosion of Wall Street and the spreading economic crisis have taken a heavy toll on consumers, driving their confidence back down after a brief rally the past two months. According to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index, consumer confidence dropped 32 points in October - the largest single-month decline in overall sentiment since the Index began in January 2002.     


Amazon and Rhapsody Show Strong Gains in Digital Music Market While iTunes Remains Dominant

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

New York, NY - Excerpts from Ipsos’ TEMPO Digital Music Brandscape study show that one year following its launch, Amazon.com Music has made a phenomenal first showing. Meanwhile, Rhapsody’s increased focus on advertising and partnership appears to be paying off. But neither development has slowed iTunes’ step, with the site continuing to gain dedicated users who perceive it as the best fee-based digital music destination.     


Canadian Laptop Ownership Set to Increase Over Next Two Years

Thursday, October 02, 2008

Calgary, AB – A new study released by Ipsos Reid examining the ownership, upgrade intentions and new consumer electronic purchases of online Canadians has found that in the next two years, laptop computers will be found in 59% of online Canadian homes.     


Despite Being Most Worried About Fire In Their Home, Only 56% Of Homeowners Have a Fire Escape Plan for Their Family

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Toronto, ON – According to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of RBC Insurance, when it comes to insuring their home, more insured Canadian homeowners are concerned about the possibility of fire (78%) as opposed to theft (15%) or flood and water damage (7%).     


Poll Reveals Ontarians Dining in More Often As Economic Slowdown and High Gas Prices Squeeze Pocketbooks

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Toronto, ON – According to an Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Metro Grocers, nearly three quarters (72%) of Ontarians who regularly buy groceries for their household ‘agree’ that they are dining in more often in order to reduce their expenses, with younger grocery shoppers (78%) and parents (82%) being even more likely to say that this is the case. Moreover, with the recent economic slowdown and increase in gas prices, 60% of grocery shoppers indicate they’ve had to scale back the amount of times they go out for dinner.     


Six in Ten (63%) Canadians Are Concerned That Technology Takes Away From Face-Time with Family and Friends

Monday, September 22, 2008

Toronto, ON – In an age where reliance on technology as a method of communication is at an all-time high, many Canadians feel they are losing their personal touch with family and friends. According to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Dentyne, six in ten Canadians (63%) are concerned that technology is taking away from their face-to-face time with friends and family. Further, eight in ten (80%) agree that technology is often used when face-to-face communication would be better.     


With Energy Bills on the Rise, Six in Ten (60%) Canadian Homeowners Planning Environmentally-Friendly Renovations

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Toronto, ON – According to the 5th Annual Home Renovation survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of RBC, six in ten (60%) Canadians who are currently planning home renovations plan to include environmentally-friendly improvements in their work. While on the surface this appears to be the effect of Canadians ‘going green’, in reality, it seems to be mostly motivated by their pocketbook.     


Online Canadians Very Interested in Downloading Online Coupons for Life’s Necessities

Monday, September 15, 2008

Calgary, AB – A new study released by Ipsos Reid examining online coupons has found that online Canadians are interested in downloading coupons or money off deals from the Internet. In particular, high levels of interest are exhibited for those items that could be considered as more of a necessity. Over one-half of survey respondents stated that they would be ‘extremely likely’ or ‘very likely’ to download a coupon for gasoline (58%) or groceries (54%). These results are perhaps not that surprising given that for many online Canadians these two categories represent a large proportion of weekly expenditures and have increased rapidly in the past few years.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. Consumer Sentiment Improves, Driven By Strong Increase In Expectations For The Future

Friday, September 12, 2008

New York, NY - Although the calendar indicates the end of summer is quickly approaching, it appears consumer confidence may be heating up, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index, which advanced for the second consecutive month.     


Canadian Farmers Demonstrate Generous Nature Through Product Donations

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Winnipeg, MB - An Ipsos Forward Research poll of members from Producers’ Perspectives ~ the Ipsos Canadian AgriForum reveals that nearly half of all Canadian farmers (46%) have donated a portion of their farm production to local or international food banks in the past; six in ten of those with production that can be donated directly (59%). In addition, one in five of those who can donate (20%) give a portion of their production annually.     


Most University Students Budget for the School Year, Yet Money is Still Tight

Tuesday, September 09, 2008

Toronto, ON – As post-secondary students make their way back to campus for a new year of academic challenges, they are also getting ready for the financial challenges of the year ahead. In fact, eight in ten (79%) plan on budgeting their spending and most (73%) say they stick to their budgets. Nonetheless, many will be unable to stick their budgets, and nearly half (45%) of those who don’t say it’s because unexpected expenses derailed their financial plan. This is according to RBC’s Student Finance Opinion Poll conducted by Ipsos-Reid.     


Search Marketing: Online Canadians Overwhelmingly Satisfied With Internet Search Results, Yet Skeptical of Online Advertising

Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Calgary, AB - A new study released by Ipsos Reid entitled “Search Marketing in Canada” has found that online Canadians are overwhelmingly satisfied with their Internet search results from search engines such as Google, Yahoo!, and Microsoft’s Live Search. Eight in ten (80%) online Canadians agree that they are getting the best results from their primary search engine. In addition, two-thirds (66%) agree that their search results are objective. Furthermore, three-quarters of online Canadians indicate they can usually find what they are looking for on the first page of search results. In the multi-billion dollar search marketing business these are important factors for online marketers.     


While Nine In Ten American Homeowners (91%) Agree That It’s Important To Reduce Their Environmental Impact, Nearly All (98%) Agree That It’s Important To Reduce Energy Use In Their Homes To Save...

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

New York, NY – It appears that when it comes to their homes, Americans might be ready to usher in the ‘green’ era. According to a new poll among American homeowners conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Icynene, while nine in ten Americans (91%) agree that it is important for them to reduce their impact on the environment wherever possible, nearly all (98%) agree that it is important to reduce energy use in their homes to save money.     


RBC Cash Index: U.S. Consumer Confidence Stops Free Fall

Thursday, August 07, 2008

New York, NY - Tumbling oil prices and a rebounding stock market appear to have placated Americans' economic jitters, resulting in a mid-summer halt in the downward spiral in consumer confidence that has persisted throughout 2008, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index.     


Canadians On Energy Conservation

Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Vancouver, BC – Ipsos Reid, in partnership with Municipal World magazine, conducted a survey on Canadians’ attitudes towards the energy conservation efforts and responsibilities of the different levels of government (federal, provincial, and municipal). The findings of this research, featured in the August 2008 issue of Municipal World, reveal that few Canadians believe their municipal government is doing a good job when it comes to energy conservation. Only three-in-ten (30%) say their municipal/local government is doing a good job promoting energy conservation among citizens, compared to half (51%) saying their municipal government is doing a poor job in this regard. Similarly, only 28% believe their municipal/local government is doing a good job in its own energy conservation efforts, while 42% provide a poor rating. Further, in both instances, relatively large percentages are unsure how to rate their municipal government’s performance, pointing to a general lack of familiarity with municipal energy conservation efforts.     


Over 70% Of Twin Cities Drivers Snack While Driving

Friday, August 01, 2008

Minneapolis, MN – Many drivers in the Twin Cities are distracted by talking on a cell phone or eating and drinking when driving. According to a poll conducted by Ipsos/Maccabee Group for AAA Minneapolis, 71% of Twin Minneapolis/St. Paul drivers admit to eating or drinking beverages while driving, while 58% admit to talking on their cell phone. Amongst younger drivers, these activities are even more prevalent. Of those 18-34 years of age, more than three quarters (77%) say that they eat or drink while driving, while 70% say they talk on their cell phone. In fact, almost one-third (31%) of these younger drivers say they actually text message while driving.     


Digital Video Consumers Say Advertising Is A Reasonable Expectation For Accessing Free Online Video Content

Thursday, July 24, 2008

New York, NY - As more American consumers go online to stream or download video content, the number of advertising-subsidized online video services is also growing. With all these new models hitting the market, the question on marketers’ minds remains: How will consumers react to the growing proliferation of advertising supported video services? Recent research conducted by Ipsos MediaCT suggests that the majority of digital video consumers will find the inclusion of advertising a ”reasonable” expectation for accessing free online video content.     


Calgarians Strong Supporters of Farmers’ Market

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Calgary, AB - Calgarians show strong support for the Calgary Farmers’ Market in a study fielded by Ipsos Reid just prior to the Herald’s front page headline and editorial on this subject.     


Canadians Are Buying More ‘Green’ Products Than They Were a Year Ago

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Toronto, ON – It seems that when it comes to their buying habits, Canadians are continuing their trend toward “green” products – those which have a reduced impact on the environment. According to a new Ipsos Reid poll, half (53%) of Canadians are buying more “green” products than they were a year ago, while nearly half (46%) say they are purchasing about the same number as last year.     


Four In Five (81%) Canadians Are Interested In Learning More About “Green” Financial Products And Services

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

Toronto, ON – It appears that when it comes to their finances, Canadians are ready to go “green”. According to a new study conducted by Ipsos Reid, the trend toward environmental awareness and responsibility is spilling over into new areas, including Canadians’ preferences with their banking.     


Summer Marks An Increase In Teen Drivers Across The US

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

New York, NY – A new poll of teens conducted on behalf of Liberty Mutual Insurance reveals that the summer months are more popular than any other season for young drivers aged 16 to 18 to obtain their learner’s permit and take their driver’s test.     


RBC Cash Index: Drumbeat Of Bad News Continues To Drive Consumer Sentiment Down

Thursday, July 03, 2008

New York, NY - Soaring gas and food prices and a stock market that just endured its worst June performance since the Great Depression are draining consumers' wallets as well as their confidence, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index.     


Developing Markets Driving Demand For Mobile Devices

Monday, June 30, 2008

San Francisco, CA – Consumers are reporting strong intentions to buy mobile devices this year, according to research conducted by Ipsos MediaCT. Consumers in 11 key markets around the world, especially the fast-growing economies of India, China, and Brazil, have strong demand for mobile devices—including cell phones, MP3 players, hand-held gaming devices, and laptop PCs.     


Americans Cast “Unhealthy” Attitude Toward Gambling Addiction

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Long Beach, CA - More than four out of every five Americans (83%) believe that “moral weakness” plays a part in the development of a gambling addiction, according to a new survey conducted by Ipsos Reid for the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG).     


Email Marketing: Canadians See More Email On A Weekly Basis, But Cracks Starting To Appear In Permission Based Marketing

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Vancouver, BC - Email Marketing 2008 a new study released by Ipsos Reid, has found that Canadians are continuing to receive more and more email on a weekly basis. This continues the trend seen over the past few years. The average number of emails received increased by 9% in the past year, although the increase is much smaller than the 26% increase observed between 2005 and 2006.     


RBC CASH Index: Consumer Confidence Continues Its Slump As Financial Worries Mount

Thursday, June 05, 2008

New York, NY - U.S. consumer confidence eroded this month as Americans' worries over every facet of their financial situation mounted, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index.     


PC Encroaching On TV’s Dominance In Share Of Screen Time With Digital Video Users

Friday, May 30, 2008

New York, NY – While TV’s place as the preeminent channel for Americans to watch video content remains safe for now, results from recent research conducted by Ipsos MediaCT shows that the PC is slowly encroaching on the TV’s dominance, capturing an increasing amount of screen time among those who download or stream video online.     


Ipsos Taps Into The Pulse Of America’s Growing Hispanic Demographic

Thursday, May 29, 2008

New York, NY – Responding to the increasing need of marketers to reach out to and understand the fast growing Hispanic population in the U.S., Ipsos is offering its Omnibus service in the Spanish language. The recently launched Ipsos Hispanic Express Omnibus becomes the only Hispanic Omnibus survey to start every week, allowing for faster data collection and more immediate results.     


Americans’ Attitudes toward Life Insurance

Thursday, May 15, 2008

New York, NY – According to a new Ipsos survey conducted on behalf of ING about American attitudes concerning life insurance, out of 15 scenarios "having your accumulated savings stolen because of identity theft or fraud" (50%) and "your death or the death of your spouse or partner" (45%) are the two events which would have the most extremely negative impact on a family's financial health and future.     


RBC CASH Index: U.S. Consumer Sentiment Inches Up After Six Months Of Declining Confidence

Friday, May 09, 2008

New York, NY - Americans' economic enthusiasm rallied slightly this month, increasing nearly 10 points and reversing six straight months of declining confidence, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. The survey, which measured the attitudes of 1,000 consumers earlier this week, found respondents more positive about their future economic prospects, but still worried about job security. As a result of these mixed attitudes, the overall RBC CASH Index, released today by RBC, stands at 39.0 for May, up from its previous all-time low of 29.5 in April.     


Could It Be Any Clearer?

Thursday, May 08, 2008

Toronto, ON – It seems that Canadians want their televisions to show them the world, and in the best possible light. According to a new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of LG, nine in ten (91%) Canadians say that when it comes to choosing a TV for their home, a superior picture quality is what matters to them. Only 9% went the other way, saying that the actual design of the TV was more important. Interestingly, women (90%) are just as likely as men (92%) to say that a superior picture quality is important.     


Environmental Actions Are A Differentiating Opportunity For BC Retailers

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll in BC reveals that most British Columbians take a retailer’s environmental record into account when deciding where to shop. Three-quarters (77%) of British Columbians say that a retailer’s actions in helping to preserve and protect the environment are either “very important” (24%) or “somewhat important” (53%) in their overall decision of where to shop.     


British Columbians Say They Are Good But Not Great When It Comes To The Environment

Monday, April 14, 2008

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll in BC shows that most British Columbians (85%) would give themselves a “B” (48%) or a “C” (37%) for their efforts in helping to preserve and protect the environment. Few (6%) British Columbians would actually award themselves with an “A”; in fact, an equivalent number (6%) grade their behaviour very poorly with a “D” or “F”.     


RBC CASH Index: Consumers Grim As Expectations For Future Financial Conditions Continue To Deteriorate

Friday, April 11, 2008

New York, NY — Pessimism among U. S. consumers continues to spread as Americans' sentiments concerning the future turn particularly gloomy, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. The survey found that while consumer attitudes regarding current conditions and investments show signs of stabilizing, Americans' confidence in future personal financial conditions continue to weaken. As a result, the overall RBC CASH Index, released today by RBC, dropped to an all-time low this month since its inception in 2002 to 29.5, compared to 33.1 in March.     


iTunes Widens Lead In Music Services Market, While Social Networking Site MySpace Loses Ground

Friday, April 04, 2008

New York, NY — In a year showcased by Radiohead’s honor system digital album release and the Apple iPhone, excerpts from Ipsos’ TEMPO Digital Music Brandscape study show that Apple’s iTunes continues to strengthen its position as the dominant fee-based digital music destination, widening its lead over other services. Other key findings include the decline of social networking site MySpace and further decline in past six month CD purchasing.     


British Columbians' Views On Pesticide Restrictions

Thursday, April 03, 2008

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society finds that a strong majority of British Columbians agree that cosmetic pesticides used in their community pose a threat to the environment (86% agree), children (81%), pets (81%), and their own personal health (76%). The definition of cosmetic pesticides given to survey respondents was “cosmetic pesticides are used to kill or control weeds, insects, fungi and pests in order to enhance the appearance of private and public lawns and gardens. For example, cosmetic pesticides may be used to get rid of weeds on the lawn or aphids on roses.” Further, three-quarters (76%) of British Columbians would support their provincial government passing legislation that would restrict the use and sale of cosmetic pesticides (47% “strongly support”).     


ING Retirement Number Study

Monday, March 17, 2008

New York, NY – According to a new Ipsos survey conducted on behalf of ING, Americans view numbers relating to their sense of identity and their closest personal relationships as being most important. The numbers most commonly mentioned as being significant are their own birthday (cited by 26% of respondents) or someone else’s birthday (22%). Other types of numbers frequently mentioned include a Social Security number (16%), a wedding anniversary (16%), a phone number (13%) and the number of children or siblings in one’s family (12%).     


“Insightful” Media Leadership Up For Grabs Among U.S. Business Elite

Monday, March 10, 2008

New York, NY – America’s business elite – senior executives, CEOs and other C-suite officers from mid- to large-size companies, including many from the Fortune 500 – see no clear media leaders as sources of “insight,” according to the recent BE: USA survey carried out by Ipsos Media.     


RBC CASH Index: Consumer Sentiment Continues Downward Trend, Driven By Steep Decline In Future Expectations

Friday, March 07, 2008

New York, NY — Confronted with falling housing values, rising foreclosures and oil prices spiking above $100 a barrel, the mood of the U.S. consumer darkened considerably this month, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. Led by a sharp drop in consumers' optimism for the future, the overall RBC CASH Index, released today by RBC, stands at 33.1 for March 2008, compared to 48.5 in February.     


Playing With Fire: Majority (55%) Of Canadians Have Removed Batteries Or Tampered With Smoke Alarms Due To False Alarm

Tuesday, March 04, 2008

Toronto, ON – It appears that many Canadian homeowners could be playing with fire, with a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and Kidde Canada, revealing that a majority of Canadians (55%) who currently own and live in a house that is at least ten years old indicate that they have ‘temporarily removed the batteries from a smoke alarm or taken it off the ceiling to silence a false alarm caused by cooking or steam’. Moreover, over one half (51%) of these individuals admit that they have forgotten to put the batteries back in or to hook the alarm back up, whether it be only for a ‘short period of time’ (40%) or for ‘quite a long time’ (11%).     


Canadian Teenagers Are Leading the Online Revolution? Maybe Not…

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Vancouver, BC – Findings from a new Ipsos Reid study – Inter@ctive Teens: The Impact of the Internet on Canada’s Next Generation – are dispelling the myth of today’s teen as an Internet-savvy, constantly-wired early adopter. Contrary to popular belief, teens are not online as much as they are stereotyped to be, the time they do spend on the Internet is focused rather narrowly on particular types of websites and activities, and their comfort level with technology is actually much lower than adults.     


Given The Chance To Change Jobs, More Workers Say Government Job (34%) Appealing To Them Than Working In Entertainment (27%)

Monday, February 25, 2008

Toronto, ON – The results of an Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of RBC finds that given the opportunity to change jobs and careers completely, one in three (34%) Canadian workers suggested that working for the government would be appealing to them, compared to fewer who said that working in the entertainment sector (27%) or as a consultant (20%) would be appealing. Some of the least-mentioned sectors that Canadians say they would find appealing include banking (8%), law (8%), accounting (9%) or financial services (11%).     


First Organic Food, Now Organic Clothing?

Friday, February 22, 2008

Vancouver, BC – An Ipsos Reid poll released today, conducted on behalf of Trend Marketing and Fashion High, reveals that six-in-ten (58%) consumers in British Columbia are more likely to shop at clothing retailers that offer eco-friendly clothing. Eco-friendly clothing is made using natural fibers (organic cotton, silk, wool, hemp, etc) that have been grown organically, free of any pesticide or toxic chemical use, within sustainable farming environments. Interest in eco-friendly clothing is stronger among younger consumers aged 18-39 (68% more likely) than among those aged 40-54 (54%) and 55 and older (52%).     


RBC CASH Index: Consumer Confidence Drops To Lowest Level Ever On Recession Fears

Friday, February 08, 2008

Washington, DC — Recent comments by President Bush about signs of weakness in the domestic economy, further rate cuts by the Federal Reserve and poor jobs data have taken a toll on consumer confidence. Consumer sentiment as measured by the latest RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index has dropped to the lowest levels since the CASH Index was created six years ago. The overall RBC CASH Index, released today by RBC, stands at 48.5 for February 2008, almost eight points below January's 56.3 level.     


Women And Home Ownership Poll

Thursday, January 31, 2008

Calgary, AB – An Ipsos-Reid poll commissioned by TD Bank Financial Group provides new insights into the home purchases made by individual Canadian women. The January poll queried Canadian women who are aged 20 to 45, own a home and made this purchase without a spouse or common law partner.     


Most Canadians Would Rather Stick To A Budget (74%) Than A Diet (25%)

Monday, January 28, 2008

Toronto, ON – The results of a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Capital One finds that physical and financial health are topping the list of New Year’s Resolutions this year. In fact, three in ten (28%) Canadians indicate that when the clock struck midnight on Jan 1st their most important resolution was to ‘become more physically fit’ (19%) to ‘lose weight’ (8%), or to ‘get or stay healthy’ (1%). However, thinking about their financial health, 15% of Canadians’ indicate that their most important resolution was to ‘become more financially secure’.     


Canada And US Public Perceptions Of Internet Gambling

Thursday, January 24, 2008

New York, NY – When it comes to the legality of Internet gambling, Canadians and Americans apparently have the wrong idea. These are the findings of two recent Ipsos Reid polls conducted with Canadians and Americans online as part of a joint Canada/US lottery survey.     


Young Adults Show Significant Interest In Free Ad-Supported TV Show Downloads

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

New York, NY — Recent research conducted by Ipsos Insight among U.S. online adults hints that future growth in online video services may be predicated more on downloading models than on streaming models – and potentially more on free ad-based content than on paid content – particularly as younger consumers spend an increasing amount of their disposable time online.     


Paws And Claus: Holiday Habits Of British Columbia Pet Owners

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll reveals that six-in-ten (61%) pet owners in British Columbia plan to buy (or have already bought) a present for one or more of their pets this holiday season. This includes 68% of dog owners, 61% of cat owners and 54% of other pet owners (e.g. fish, birds, rabbits, hamsters). Women pet owners (65%) are more likely than men (53%) to say they plan to buy a gift for their pet.     


Seven in Ten (72%) ‘Concerned’ About Falling Victim to Identity Theft

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Toronto, ON – A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Capital One reveals that a strong majority of Canadians continue to worry about identity theft. In fact, nearly three quarters (72%) of Canadians are ‘concerned’ about becoming a victim to identity theft, while just three in ten (28%) are not concerned about the possibility of this occurrence.     


RBC CASH Index: Consumer Confidence Remains Unchanged From November Collapse

Friday, December 07, 2007

Washington, DC — Although the holiday season has arrived, U.S. consumers are not feeling very merry, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index. The survey, which measured the attitudes of 1,009 Americans earlier this week, found that consumer sentiment remained low, but stable, following a significant drop in November. While Americans' expectations for future prospects and their confidence in jobs improved slightly, their evaluations about current conditions and investments continued to decline. As a result of these mixed sentiments, the RBC CASH Index for December 2007 stands at 65.9, compared to 64.0 in November.     


Canadians With (85%) And Without (84%) Children ‘Concerned’ With Toy Safety As Holiday

Friday, November 30, 2007

Toronto, ON – With toy recalls abound, particularly relating to those imported from China, a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted exclusively on behalf of CanWest News Service and Global Television finds that most Canadians (84%) agree that they are ‘concerned about the safety of toys being imported into Canada’, while just 15% disagree that this is the case.     


Majority (54%) of Canadians Say They’re ‘Spenders’, Not ‘Savers’ (46%)

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Toronto, ON – A new Ipsos Reid poll released today and conducted on behalf of ING DIRECT reveals that a majority (54%) of Canadians who have a bank account say that they would classify themselves as a ‘spender’, while a minority indicate that they are ‘savers’ (46%) by nature. This might not be surprising, however, considering that four in ten (39%) Canadians do not have a favourite technique or habit to save. But other Canadians indicate that they save in a variety of different manners, including regular deductions to an RRSP account (22%), a change jar (17%), or automatic deductions to a savings account (16%) among other tactics.     


Groundbreaking Survey Shows Most Canadian Beer Drinkers Are Planning Ahead Before Celebrating With Friends

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Toronto, ON – Labatt and Ipsos Reid today released the largest public opinion survey on Canadian beer drinkers’ transportation plans during the holiday season. The survey demonstrates that Canadian beer drinkers, particularly those aged 18-24, appear to get the message that drinking and driving don’t mix. The results of the joint survey find that most (88%) beer drinkers generally have a plan or make arrangements to get home safely when they are going out to an activity where they might be drinking alcohol. The survey is comprised of 4,501 beer drinkers across Canada.     


British Columbians Enjoying Rise In The Canadian Dollar's Value

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Vancouver, BC — With the recent surge of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. currency, Ipsos Reid in partnership with Business in Vancouver commissioned a study that revealed British Columbians are resoundingly positive about the impact on Canadian consumers, but are mixed with respect to the perceived impact on Canadian businesses. In contrast, most believe the current situation negatively impacts businesses and consumers south of the border. What is also very clear is that a significant number of BC residents are more likely to shop and vacation in the U.S. as a direct result of recent changes to the exchange rate.     


The Good, Retired Life

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Toronto, ON – According to a recent poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of RBC, while a slim majority (56%) of individuals approaching retirement believe that their quality of life will get better once they retire, eight in ten (79%) current retirees indicate their quality of life was improved once they retired. These findings suggest that retired life is even better than individuals might have originally predicted.     


RBC CASH Index: Consumer Confidence Plummets In The Face Of Gas Price Hikes And Credit Crunch

Friday, November 09, 2007

Washington, DC — U.S. consumer confidence reached its lowest level in more than two years this month amid concerns over record-high oil prices, continued trouble in the housing market and higher inflation, according to the most recent results of the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index, which measured the attitudes of 1,005 Americans this week. Although consumer attitudes deteriorated across the board, the substantial drop in expectations contributed heavily to the sizeable decline in the overall index. As a result, the overall RBC CASH Index for November 2007 stands at 64, down more than 16 points from October's 80.6 level.     


More Than Two-Thirds Of Americans Take Nutritional Or Dietary Supplements

Tuesday, October 09, 2007

WASHINGTON, D.C. – More than two-thirds of Americans (68%) say that they take nutritional or dietary supplements over the course of a year. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbals/ botanicals, sports nutrition supplements or specialty supplements. In fact, 52% say that they take supplements regularly, with another 16% saying they take supplements either occasionally (13%) or seasonally (3%). This is up from 46% found in a similar study from last year. Looking at non-users, 12% of Americans say they have taken nutritional or dietary supplements in the past but no longer do so, while 20% say they do not take supplements and never have.