Consumer confidence improved again in February marking the third consecutive monthly rise and reaching its highest level since last June.
According to the latest BRC-Opinium survey, conducted between 10 and 13 February 2026, expectations around the state of the UK economy over the next three months improved to -30, up from -32 in January.
Sentiment about personal finances also edged higher, rising to -6 from -8 the previous month. Expectations for personal retail spending saw a notable shift, climbing to 0 from -6, while overall spending expectations increased to +6 from +5.
However, expectations around personal saving dipped to 0 in February, down from +2 in January, suggesting some households may feel more comfortable spending rather than building reserves.
CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM
The data indicates cautious optimism among consumers, though confidence levels remain below long-term averages.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, says: “Consumer confidence improved for a third straight month, hitting its highest level since last June.
“Young people remain the most upbeat, with men notably more confident than women about the months ahead.
“Spending expectations also edged up in February, but retail demand remains weak by historical standards, leaving retailers under continued pressure.”
ENCOURAGING BUT FRAGILE
She adds: “This lift in confidence is encouraging, but fragile. Slow growth and rising unemployment still weigh heavily on the economy.
“Potential future rate cuts and rising real wages could help unlock discretionary spending, but only if Government acts too – tackling economic headwinds and mitigating business costs to help ease the cost of living.
“Only by boosting consumer spending can retail begin to unlock more jobs and investment in local economies across the country.”
The gradual improvement in sentiment may offer modest encouragement, particularly if stronger spending confidence translates into greater willingness to move or invest in housing in the months ahead.
