Outfox the Market: A Comprehensive Guide to Tariffs, Reviews, and Service
In a crowded UK energy market, Outfox the Market has carved out a significant space for itself since its launch in 2017. Operating from its Leicester headquarters, this modern supplier entered the industry with a clear mission: to leverage technology to reduce overheads and deliver consistently competitive energy prices to customers across the country.
This guide provides a detailed look into what Outfox the Market offers, from its tariff structures and green credentials to its customer service reputation, helping you decide if it’s the right supplier for your home.
1. What Sets Outfox the Market Apart?
While many suppliers compete on price, Outfox the Market has built its brand on a foundation of efficiency and transparency. Here are some of the core reasons why households might consider making the switch:
- Competitive Pricing: By operating with a lean business model and smart technology, the company frequently offers tariffs that are among the most affordable on the market.
- Customer-Centric Approach: A strong focus on customer satisfaction is evident in their consistently high review scores on platforms like Trustpilot.
- Transparent and Simple Tariffs: Outfox the Market avoids overly complex energy plans, preferring to offer straightforward fixed and variable options.
- Commitment to Green Energy: The supplier provides 100% renewable electricity with its tariffs, catering to the growing demand for environmentally friendly energy.
- Low Early Exit Fees: For customers who value flexibility, their fixed-rate tariffs often come with exit fees that are noticeably lower than the industry average.
2. A Look at Outfox the Market's Energy Tariffs
Outfox the Market provides energy plans for both single-fuel (electricity only) and dual-fuel (gas and electricity) customers. Their offerings are generally divided into two main categories, giving customers a choice between price security and flexibility.
| Tariff Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Rate Tariffs | Your price per unit of energy (kWh) and daily standing charge are locked in for the duration of your contract, typically 12 months. This protects you from wholesale market price rises. | Households who prioritise budget certainty and want to avoid unexpected price increases. |
| Standard Variable Tariffs (SVTs) | The unit rates and standing charges can fluctuate. These changes are aligned with Ofgem's energy price cap, which is reviewed quarterly. | Customers who prefer not to be tied into a contract and are comfortable with prices potentially rising or falling with the market. |
It's important to note that Outfox the Market does not currently offer prepayment or pay-as-you-go tariffs. All customers are required to pay by monthly Direct Debit and manage their account online, which is a key part of how the company maintains its low operating costs.
3. Customer Service and How to Get in Touch
An accessible and responsive customer service team is crucial for any energy supplier. Outfox the Market provides support primarily through digital channels and a dedicated phone line.
You can contact their UK-based team via:
- Phone: 0800 103 2702
- Webchat: Available through their official website.
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
- Saturday: 9:00am – 2:00pm
- Sunday & Bank Holidays: Closed
This structure allows them to handle queries efficiently during peak times while helping to keep operational costs down.
4. Understanding Early Exit Fees
Should you need to leave a fixed-rate tariff before the contract end date, an early exit fee may apply. Outfox the Market is known for keeping these fees at the lower end of the spectrum. While charges can vary between tariffs, they are often around £25 to £30 per fuel. This is considerably less than the £75-£100 per fuel charged by some larger suppliers, offering customers a greater degree of flexibility. Always check the specific terms and conditions of a tariff before you sign up.
5. Outfox the Market's Commitment to Green Energy
For environmentally conscious consumers, a supplier's fuel mix is a critical factor. Outfox the Market provides 100% renewable electricity with all its tariffs as standard.
Rather than generating the power itself, the company achieves this by purchasing Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO) certificates. This is a common and regulated practice where for every unit of electricity a customer uses, a corresponding unit of certified renewable energy is sourced from generators (like wind, solar, or hydro) and added to the National Grid. This process guarantees that your energy consumption is matched by renewable generation, supporting the UK's transition to cleaner energy.
6. What Do Customers Say? Outfox the Market Reviews
Online reviews offer valuable insight into the real-world customer experience. As of 2024, Outfox the Market holds an impressive reputation on Trustpilot.
- Trustpilot Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 47,000 reviews.
The majority of positive reviews praise the supplier for its competitive pricing, easy switching process, and straightforward online account management. Customers often report significant savings compared to their previous suppliers. Common criticisms, when they arise, tend to focus on occasional billing queries or wait times during exceptionally busy periods.
7. Can I Get a Smart Meter?
Outfox the Market is actively installing the latest generation of SMETS2 smart meters for its customers. These devices automatically send meter readings, ensuring your bills are always accurate and putting an end to manual submissions.
The rollout is happening in phases across the country. If you are a customer, you can register your interest in a smart meter installation through your online account. The supplier will then contact you when engineers are available in your area. If you already have a SMETS2 meter from a previous supplier, it should be fully compatible when you switch to Outfox the Market.
8. Does Outfox the Market Offer Other Products?
As part of its strategy to remain lean and focused, Outfox the Market concentrates exclusively on supplying gas and electricity. It does not currently offer additional energy-related products or services, such as:
- Boiler installation or cover
- Solar panel or heat pump installation
- EV charging solutions
This streamlined approach means customers looking for a simple, low-cost energy provider will find them a good fit. However, those wanting to bundle multiple home services with one company may need to look elsewhere.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
How does Outfox the Market compare to major suppliers?
Outfox the Market competes primarily on price and efficiency. Unlike larger suppliers like British Gas or Octopus Energy, it doesn't have a wide range of extra services. Its strength lies in its low-cost, digitally focused model, which often translates into cheaper bills for the average household.
Is Outfox the Market a safe and stable supplier?
The UK energy market has faced volatility, but Outfox the Market has established itself as a resilient and prominent independent supplier. It is regulated by Ofgem, meaning customers are protected by the same safety net that covers all licensed UK suppliers. In the unlikely event of a supplier failing, Ofgem's procedures ensure your energy supply is never interrupted.
How do I switch to Outfox the Market?
Switching is a simple process. You can get a quote directly from their website by entering your postcode and some basic information about your energy usage. If you decide to proceed, Outfox the Market will handle the entire switching process with your old supplier, which typically takes around 15-20 days.
