It was first appointed to the task in 2008 – back when the contract was valued at €15m. As it did last time, TNS saw off competition from Ipsos and GfK to clinch the work.

The EU uses its Eurobarometer Qualitative studies to examine reactions to different public policies or actions undertaken in connection with them, to evaluate communication material and key messages, and to gain a deeper understanding of quantitative results and the formation of public opinion over time.

Studies involve focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and additional consultancy services covering 35 countries or territories, including all EU member states but also non-EU countries such as the US.

Leendert de Voogd, global head of TNS Political & Social, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this major assignment from the European institutions for another four years. We look forward to continuing to build on our strong partnership with the European Commission and the European Parliament and help them understand the ‘whys’ behind the data.”

In addition to the qual work, TNS also holds the contracts for both the €60m Eurobarometer ‘Flash’ surveys and the main €65m quant survey.