Consumer Snippets – 31 July 2026

Sentiment on major purchases improving

GfK consumer confidence rose six points to -17 in July, the biggest monthly gain since November 2023. The composition within the move is interesting however: the two economy-facing measures jumped 10 and 8 points, but views on personal finances rose just three. Households are starting to feel better about the country, but not their own pocket quite yet. The 8-point jump in the major purchase index is important and is the first real firming in big-ticket intent in months, though it is intent not spend. The new government and England’s semi-final run have helped sentiment, but the bounce needs delivery against cost-of-living and weak growth to stick.