The British Retail Consortium’s Consumer Sentiment Monitor for April 2026 shows consumer confidence remains low.
According to BRC-Opinium data, consumer expectations of the economy remained as the previous month, which is the lowest on record.
Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, Helen Dickinson, said: “The Middle East conflict continues to stoke consumer anxiety around inflation and the cost of living. Amid a volatile geopolitical situation, households are expecting to see their pay packets squeezed by rising petrol, domestic energy, and food prices. Expected retail spending rose, but this was driven entirely by grocery spend, with most consumers expecting to rein in spending in other areas.”
Consumers reported their personal financial situation continued to worsened in April, with personal spending, on retail and overall, rising.
“The longer volatility drags on, the more uncertainty it creates in the economy,” Mrs Dickinson added.
“Businesses are battered by higher energy costs while also grappling with the growing burden of domestic policy pressures. From new packaging taxes to incoming employment and health regulations, the government has levers it can pull to limit the inflationary fallout. Taking early, decisive action would help shield consumers from a spike in the cost of living they simply can’t afford.”
The data, based on fieldwork conducted by Opinium for the BRC, sampled 2,000 UK adults from April 7 – 10 2026.
Stay Ahead in the Housewares Industry
Never miss a beat in the world of housewares. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest industry news, insights, and trends—delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, get six issues a year of our expertly curated magazine, published at key points to keep you informed and inspired.
Subscribe now: https://housewareslive.net/registration/
