Consumer spending on furniture saw a boost in April 2025, according to Barclays' latest Consumer Spending Index. Card spending in furniture stores rose 5.2% year-on-year, though transaction volumes dipped slightly by 0.4%. Similar trends were observed across other retail sectors.
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Home improvement and DIY stores recorded a 4% rise in spend despite a 1.5% fall in transactions. Department stores outperformed, with a 7.2% increase in spend and an 8.8% jump in transactions. Discount stores also fared well, with spend growth of 6.3% and transactions up 4.5%. Garden centres stood out, with spend surging by 25% and transaction volume rising 17.3%.
Overall consumer card spending grew by 4.5%, the strongest uplift since June 2023 and the first to outpace the CPIH inflation rate of 3.4% in over two years. The Easter weekend and warm weather helped drive footfall, benefiting both retail and hospitality. Essential spending also returned to growth, rising 3.1% after two months of decline.
Late April research revealed that 72% of UK consumers were concerned about the financial impact of tariffs—down from 77% earlier in the month. Meanwhile, 27% said they were actively saving to buffer against potential future price rises.
Karen Johnson, Head of Retail at Barclays, noted that April marked a positive shift: 'April's sunny weather inspired consumers to embrace the best of Britain, with all retail, hospitality, and leisure subcategories in growth for the first time in over five years.' She added that while tariff effects remain uncertain, shoppers continue to support British businesses while remaining financially cautious.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com