UK consumer confidence fell by three points in January as all but one measure decreased, including big-ticket items.

According to the latest GfK Consumer Confidence Index, overall figures saw a decrease by three points to -45 in January 2023.

The Major Purchase Index, which includes big ticket items such as furniture, is down six points to -40; this is 30 points lower than this month last year.

The measure for the general economic situation of the country during the last 12 months is down five points at -71; this is 24 points lower than in January 2022.  

The index measuring changes in personal finances over the last 12 months decreased three points to -31; this is 25 points worse than January 2022. 

The Savings Index is down six points this month at +14; this is one point lower than this time last year.

Joe Staton, Client Strategy Director GfK, says: “After a short-lived and weak rally in Q4 last year, UK consumer confidence has slipped to -45 in January. Consumers have a New Year hangover – but it’s of the economic kind – with high levels of pessimism over the state of the wider economy. And unlike a conventional hangover, this one won’t vanish quickly. The only glimmer of hope in the results is a slight uptick in the outlook for our personal financial situation, but this is of little comfort because it is still 25 points lower than this time last year.

“This month’s six-point decline in the major purchase index does not augur well because consumer spending is a driving force of our economy and future growth. With inflation continuing to swallow up pay rises, and the prospect of some shocking energy bills landing soon, the forecast for consumer confidence this year is not looking good. One thing we can be sure of is that 2023 promises to be a bumpy ride.”