Consumer card spending in furniture stores rose during April when compared to last year, says new data from Barclays.

According to the latest Barclays Consumer Spending Index, which includes both debit and credit cards, furniture store spending growth increased 5.2%, while transaction growth was down 0.4% against the same month last year.

Home improvement and DIY stores saw spending growth improve 4%, with transaction growth down 1.5%. Department stores saw spending growth increase 7.2%, with transaction growth up by 8.8%. Discount stores saw an increase of 6.3% in spend growth, while transaction growth was up 4.5%, and Garden centres experienced an increase of 25% in spend growth and a rise of 17.3% in transaction growth.

Consumer card spending grew 4.5 per cent year-on-year in April – the greatest uplift seen since June 2023, and above the most recent CPIH inflation rate (3.4 per cent) for the first time in over two years. The Easter weekend and the sunny weather boosted both retail and hospitality, while essential spend returned to growth after two months of decline, at 3.1 per cent.

Research conducted in late April showed that seven in 10 UK consumers (72 per cent) were concerned about the impact tariffs could have on their household finances, although this was an improving picture compared to the start of the month (77 per cent). Over a quarter (27 per cent) reported trying to save more money each month to build up a buffer, in case prices rise in the future.

Karen Johnson, Head of Retail at Barclays, said: “April’s sunny weather inspired consumers to embrace the best of Britain, with all retail, hospitality, and leisure subcategories in growth for the first time in over five years.

“While the long-term impact of any tariffs on household finances remains to be seen, given Thursday’s announcement of a UK/US trade deal, shoppers are demonstrating a commitment to supporting British business, while still carefully managing their money.”