BRC figures have shown an increase in consumer confidence in the UK as the economy improves and the US tariffs war with China eases.
Consumer expectations for the next three months of the state of the economy improved to -36 in May, up from -48 in April. Expectations for personal financial situation improved to -12 in May, up from -16 in April. Personal spending on retail expectations fell to 0 in May, down from +3 in April, while expectations of personal spending overall remained at +10 in May, the same as in April. Personal saving expectations fell slightly to -5 in May, down from -4 in April.
Helen Dickinson, ceo of the British Retail Consortium commented: “Consumer confidence improved as UK economic growth picked up and geopolitical tensions eased as the US-China trade war began to cool, however, it remains far below levels seen last year.
“The over-60s saw the biggest improvement, up almost 20 points, though they are still the most pessimistic of all generations. This may reflect the stock market recovery after the turbulence caused by a slew of US tariff announcements. Overall spending expectations stayed at similar levels for a third consecutive month, while expectations of retail spend dropped slightly.
“Only weeks ago, consumers were facing uncertainty arising from President Trump’s announcement of eye-watering tariffs on many countries. Fast forward to today, the UK has trade deals with some of the world’s largest economies. While agreements with the US and India may have helped this month’s boost in consumer confidence, it is hoped the latest EU deal will drive further confidence in the outlook for the economy and personal finances.
“There is more the UK can do to encourage spending and trade: reintroducing a tax-free shopping scheme would attract more high value shoppers from abroad, benefitting retail, hospitality, and leisure, and creating employment opportunities and boosting economic growth.”
