Virgin Media, RAC and Sky are the top firms to haggle a better deal with, MoneySavingExpert poll finds

Which firms are the movers and shakers?

Overall, Virgin Media has jumped from fourth place last year, to first this year, knocking RAC off the top spot. Four firms secured an 80%+ success rating (Virgin Media, RAC, Sky and AA).

Sky customers reported enjoying more success this year, as it jumped from fifth place last year to a top three position this year with its success rate rising from 81% to 84%. Three, O2 and Virgin Mobile also made it to the top ten this year, all with increased success rates.

Gary Caffell, utilities editor at MoneySavingExpert, says: "While loyalty generally doesn’t pay, this year’s poll shows once again customers can make it work for their pocket if they’re willing to give haggling a go. It never hurts to try.

"It’s positive to see the big names topping the poll once more, but it’s also encouraging to see consumers from a wide variety of firms across all sectors having success. So, if you’re out of contract, the power is in your hands to ask for a better deal. Benchmark prices elsewhere first, then be polite and with a bit of charm, there’s a good chance you’ll bag a decent discount."

MSE’s top haggling tips

For those prepared to give haggling a go, read these handy haggling tips for a few extra pointers:

·       Use charm, cheek and a smile – whether it’s on the phone or in person, remember you’re dealing with a human being, so there’s no need to put someone’s back up. If you do it with humour, style and grace, then there's no price or suggestion too outrageous.

·       Problems mean discounts – if you've had issues with the company (slow broadband speed, poor mobile network coverage, wrong payments taken), mention this politely. They should then want to try and make it up to you.

·       Time it right – the end of the month or financial quarter is a good time to haggle, as salespeople are likely to be trying to meet their targets. However, the end of your contract is your powerhouse weapon when it comes to haggling, so make a note in your diary when it’s one month away.

·       Get through to the right department – most frontline staff aren’t able to negotiate with you. So if you can’t get the deal you want with them, then ask to be put through to 'disconnections', which internally is known also as 'customer retentions'. These people have huge deal-making power to get you to stay.

·       Don’t say ‘yes’ to the first offer they give – this is because the chances are it’s not the best they can do.

See more tips and tricks in MSE’s Haggling guide, plus previous success stories.

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