Consumer confidence in the UK remained deeply negative in April, with concerns over inflation, household finances and geopolitical instability continuing to weigh on sentiment, according to new figures from the British Retail Consortium and Opinium.
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Fieldwork conducted between 7 and 10 April found expectations for the state of the economy remained unchanged at -53, matching March and staying at the lowest level on record.
Expectations for personal finances deteriorated further to -21, down from -17 the previous month, also marking a record low.
Despite this, anticipated personal spending on retail rose to +5 in April from +2 in March, while expected overall personal spending increased to +15 from +13. Expectations for personal saving remained unchanged at -8.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: "The Middle East conflict continues to stoke consumer anxiety around inflation and the cost of living."
She added that households expect their income to come under pressure from rising petrol, domestic energy and food prices. According to Dickinson, while expected retail spending increased, this was "driven entirely by grocery spend", with many consumers planning to reduce spending elsewhere.
Dickinson warned that prolonged global instability could deepen economic uncertainty. "The longer volatility drags on, the more uncertainty it creates in the economy," she said.
She also noted that businesses are facing higher energy costs while managing additional domestic policy pressures, including new packaging taxes and incoming employment and health regulations.
Calling for intervention, Dickinson said government has measures available that could help limit inflationary pressures. "Taking early, decisive action would help shield consumers from a spike in the cost of living they simply can't afford."
The latest survey suggests that while essential spending remains resilient, confidence in wider economic conditions and household finances continues to weaken, presenting an ongoing challenge for retailers through 2026.
More information:
BRC
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www.brc.org.uk
