29 July 2024
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has released its latest consumer sentiment monitor for July, which surveys 2,000 UK consumers monthly about their shopping behaviours, financial status, and attitudes. Here are the key findings:
Economic Optimism:
Positivity towards the future of the UK economy saw a significant rise in July.
- Optimistic responses increased by 9%.
- Pessimistic responses decreased by 6%.
Financial Situations:
Financial situations remained stable:
- 40% of respondents are comfortable.
- 40% are coping.
- 19% are struggling.
Debt Levels:
Overall debt levels dipped slightly to 48%.
- Millennials are still the most likely group to have debt.
Spending Plans:
Spending plans for the next three months remained mostly unchanged:
- Plans to spend more dropped slightly to 25%.
- Gen Z saw a strong increase in spending plans, overtaking Millennials, with nearly half planning to spend more.
Saving Expectations:
Expectations to save improved this month:
- There was a decrease in the number of those expecting to save less.
Cost-Cutting Measures:
Top ways consumers are reducing outgoings include:
- Buying cheaper products.
- Reducing leisure spending.
- Purchasing fewer items overall.
Non-Essential Spending Priorities:
Top non-essential spending priorities remain:
- Dining out (36%).
- Travelling for leisure (35%).
- Home improvements (25%).
- Small increases were noted in:
- Going out to bars (23%, +2%).
- Electronics and gadgets (18%, +3%).
Financial Pressure for Parents:
Since the school holidays began, two fifths of parents expect more financial pressure due to higher spending on days out and groceries.
Got something to say on this story? Scroll down and leave a comment.
Related News
All News-
Small Business Strategy Inquiry 2025
The House of Commons Business and Trade Committee has asked Bira to help them reach out to small business retailers across the country, for their quick input on the issues most important to them
-
Bira welcomes spending review commitments to high street safety and community investment
Bira calls for focus on high street regeneration as Chancellor announces three-year budget plans, including increased funding for policing.
-
Indie Retail is at the Heart of High Street Revival
Independent stores are helping to redefine the high street experience, offering unique products and creating community hubs that bring people together and drive local vibrancy.
-
Bira to respond to Low Pay Commission’s National Living Wage consultation for 2026
Bira has confirmed it will be responding to the Low Pay Commission’s (LPC) newly launched consultation on the National Living and Minimum Wage rates for 2026.