UK consumer confidence declined in March 2026, reflecting growing economic uncertainty and weakening appetite for major purchases. According to the GfK Consumer Confidence Index, the overall score fell by two points to -21.
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The most notable drop was in the Major Purchase Index, which fell four points to -18, indicating reduced willingness to spend on big-ticket items such as furniture. This figure is also slightly worse than the same period last year.
While perceptions of personal finances over the past year remained stable at -7, sentiment around the wider economy showed mixed movement. Views on the general economic situation over the last 12 months improved marginally by one point to -43, though future expectations declined sharply.
The Savings Index rose six points to 27, suggesting consumers are increasingly cautious and choosing to hold onto cash rather than spend.
GfK's Neil Bellamy said 'a ripple of fear is spreading', linking declining confidence to uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict and concerns over rising prices.
He added that weakening spending intentions and higher savings levels indicate consumers are delaying purchases amid fears of further economic volatility.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com
