17 July 2019 – Nearly three-quarters (72%) of Londoners own retro technology, citing nostalgia as one of the reasons.
The findings came as part of a survey conducted by Pay-As-You-Go energy provider Boost, who examined the retro technology buying habits of over 2,000 Brits. In the research, retro technology was defined as being released before the year 2000 and includes items such as vinyl records, instant cameras, and cassettes.
Over one-quarter of people from London (26%) were found to have purchased retro technology over the last 12 months. Looking ahead, 32% of the capital city’s respondents say they intend to make a retro purchase in the next 12 months.
When asked why they enjoy using retro technology, 45% of Londoners said it “reminds me of when I was young”. Other significant reasons include that retro technology is “more fun than today’s technology” (22%), and that retro technology “takes my mind off today’s problems” (13%).
Retro technology used in pop culture is proving to be at the heart of the revolution. More than one-in-five (21%) Londoners own a cassette player like the one seen in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy films, whilst 15% are in possession of an instant camera, revived by the Netflix series Stranger Things.
Justin Cockerill, Managing Director at Boost, commented on the findings:
“Technological developments continue to drive the energy industry forward. At Boost, we’re rolling out smart meters and mobile technology to help our customers take control of their energy use. Yet, when it comes to recreational technology, the trends from the 1980’s and 1990’s are making a nostalgic comeback.
“Our findings show how cycles of fashion, entertainment, and culture drive younger generations to retro technology. If you’ve got an old games console in the attic, dust it down and pass it on – there’s almost certainly someone out there who will continue to enjoy it.”
For more findings from the survey, plus an infographic and expert comment, head to the Boost blog.
