Consumer card spending in UK furniture stores rose slightly in February 2026, according to the latest Barclays Consumer Spending Index, reflecting cautious but continuing demand in the sector.
Spending in furniture stores increased 0.5% year-on-year, while the number of transactions grew 1.4% compared with the same month in 2025.
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In contrast, home improvement and DIY retailers recorded weaker performance, with spending declining 3.1% and transactions down 5.6%. Department stores also saw spending fall 1.9%, although transaction volumes rose slightly by 0.5%.
Across all categories, overall consumer card spending rose 1.0% in February, up from 0.8% in January, but still below the 3.2% CPIH inflation rate. Essential spending fell 0.6%, while non-essential spending reached a six-month high of 1.8% growth.
Several retail segments continued to perform strongly, including clothing (3.7%), general retailers and marketplaces (4.6%), and pharmacy, health and beauty (6.4%).
Karen Johnson, Head of Retail at Barclays, said shoppers remain careful with spending amid rising costs and global uncertainty, noting that consumers are increasingly focused on value for money and smarter purchasing decisions in the months ahead.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com
