GFK’s Consumer Confidence Index remained in negative territory during April, although it was unchanged from recent months despite the growing Brexit uncertainty and political turmoil in Westminster.
Overall, the index score came in at -13, the same level as February and March but four points less than April last year when it stood at -8.
The month saw a dip in the measures for people’s personal financial situation – both looking back a year and ahead to the coming year. This was balanced by a small increase in expectations for the general economic situation over the next 12 months, although the measure still stands significanty lower than April 2018.
Meanwhile, a further two-point drop in the measure on ‘major purchases’ suggests further challenges in the near future for the retail sector.
Joe Staton, Client Strategy Director at GfK, commented: “We have reported a -13 headline for the past three months and it appears it’s a case of ‘Keep Calm’ when it comes to how confident consumers are feeling right now.
“Despite political carry-on in the Westminster bubble with the clock ticking on Britain’s eventual departure from the EU, consumers are holding firm and remain unshaken by the daily headlines of turmoil and intrigue, although we remain in negative territory.”
