UK consumer confidence strengthens on brighter economic outlook
By Benjamin Chiou
Date: Thursday 20 Aug 2026
(Sharecast News) - UK consumer confidence improved in August, according to the British Retail Consortium's Consumer Sentiment Monitor, with expectations for the economy, personal finances and retail spending all strengthening over the month.
The BRC-Opinium survey showed expectations for the state of the economy over the next three months rising to a net balance of -28 from -36 in July, while expectations for personal finances improved to -9 from -12.
Retail spending expectations climbed more sharply, with the net balance rising to +8 from +1, while overall spending expectations edged up to +15 from +13. Expectations for saving slipped to -5 from -4.
"Consumer sentiment continued to rise with confidence in the economy hitting its highest level since the historical lows reached at the start of the Iran conflict. Expectations for personal finances saw a small improvement, driven by an optimistic Gen Z," said Helen Dickinson, the BRC's chief executive.
"The Burnham administration is enjoying a honeymoon boost driven by less pessimism about the outlook, but maintaining that momentum will depend on whether the Government can ease the pressure on household budgets."
Dickinson said that the upcoming Autumn Budget in late-October will be the "acid test of this government's real commitment to growth", calling on the government to reduce retail business costs, from energy bills to business rates.
"A Budget that backs retail and reduces costs is a pro-consumer Budget," she said.
Email this article to a friend
or share it with one of these popular networks:
You are here: news
10 Lower Thames St,
London EC3R 6EN