A comp, at least in theory, is to get a customer who would earn that level on his/her own in the long run but doesn't want to suffer through a non-status drought en route to it. Status on another airline is usually required, proving that the person at least flies that much with someone. Given that concept, I'd say nearly all those who get comped at least make a case that they'll requalify "for real." Barring the unforeseen changes in jobs etc., I'd guess that most of them do. (I did when AA comped me Platinum so I'd switch from DL where I was Gold Medallion and enjoying all the benefits thereof. AA no longer comps based on DL status, at least not in general, but the principle still applies.)