Consumer card spending in UK furniture stores saw a notable increase in August 2025, rising 11.6% compared with the same month last year, according to the Barclays Consumer Spending Index. Transaction growth also rose 7.7%, marking the strongest uplift since March 2022.
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In contrast, home improvement and DIY stores experienced a 1.4% decline in spending, while department stores saw spending fall 8.8% and discount stores dropped 4.3%. Garden centres posted a modest 0.6% increase in spending, though transactions were slightly down by 0.3%.
Overall consumer card spending grew just 0.5% year-on-year in August, below the CPIH inflation rate of 4.2%. Discretionary spending increased by 2.0%, driven by sectors including clothing, furniture, and health & beauty. Entertainment and digital subscriptions also saw growth, boosted by the popularity of KPop Demon Hunters.
Karen Johnson, Head of Retail at Barclays, noted that "confidence in household finances remained steady in August, suggesting that while the cost of living is still front of mind, consumers are learning to navigate the challenges and make the most of their budgets."
The data highlights a continued resilience in discretionary spending, particularly in furniture, amid broader economic pressures.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com
