Consumer spending buoyed by summery spell, says Barclaycard

Consumer spending was on the up in April as a spell of spring sunshine got Brits out and about to rack up double-digit growth for pubs and restaurants, according to data released on Wednesday.

According to figures from Barclaycard, consumer spending grew by 2.5% when compared to the same month of the year before, though this still constituted a slowdown from the 3.1% growth seen in April 2018.

Spending at pubs and restaurants grew by 13.1% and 10.0% respectively as consumers leapt at the chance to enjoy the sunny bank holiday by relaxing and dining out, though the impact of this was tempered by a 5.2% cutback in spending on clothes, and 2.0% drop in the amount dished out on electronics and in department stores.

In a statement, Barclays added that the travel industry also saw a decline, with airline spending falling into the negatives to the tune of 4.8%, the lowest figure recorded since Barclaycard started tracking this data in 2015.

Esme Harwood, director at Barclaycard, said: "Warmer temperatures, especially over the Easter weekend, led many consumers to spend on experiences and dining out. Overall consumer spending in April has remained relatively modest, with the retail sector continuing to struggle."

Following news of the Brexit delay and some therapeutic rays of sunshine over the Easter weekend, optimism was also on the rise, with 33% of consumers feeling confident in the UK economy, compared to 26% in March.

"While the Brexit delay seems to have brought some short-term relief to consumer confidence, it’s clear that many shoppers still remain cautious about making any big-ticket purchases such as holidays, a new car or investing in home improvements," said Harwood.