GfK: Consumer Confidence Increased Again in September

GfK’s long-running Consumer Confidence Index was up one point to -13 in September. Four measures rose compared to last month’s announcement, and one fell. These are the latest findings from the GfK Consumer Confidence Barometer (CCB), powered by NIM. The CCB has been published jointly by GfK and the Nuremberg Institute for Market Decisions (NIM), the founder of GfK, since October 2023.

Neil Bellamy, Consumer Insights Director at GfK, an NIQ Company, says: “September continued the gradual recovery seen since April, with consumer confidence rising one point to -13. This marks the first time since summer 2024 that we have seen three consecutive monthly increases in the Overall Index Score. The largest gains this month came from perceptions of the wider economy over the past year (up four points) and personal finances over the same period (up three points). The forward-looking economic and financial measures both rose modestly, each up one point. The only measure to fall this month was the Major Purchase Index, down one point, which comes as we head into the important Golden Quarter for retailers. The Savings Index rose five points, which, although not used in our headline score, may indicate that those who can are thinking of building a financial buffer. However, the return of higher inflation removes one of the strongest positives seen in previous months. So, while the headline score continues to improve, confidence is still firmly in negative territory. With inflation, energy and fuel prices rising, could we soon see consumer sentiment falter?”

GfK Consumer Confidence Barometer powered by NIM — UK Measures – September 2026
The Overall Index Score was up one point to -13 in September. Four measures rose compared to last month’s announcement, and one fell.

Personal Financial Situation
The index measuring changes in personal finances over the last 12 months has increased three points to -3. This is four points higher than September 2025.

The forecast for personal finances over the next year is up one point at +5. This is one point higher than this time last year.

General Economic Situation
The measure for the country’s general economic situation over the last 12 months has increased by four points to -36. This is nine points better than a year ago.

Expectations for the general economic situation over the coming 12 months have risen by one point to -22. This is 10 points above September last year.
 
Major Purchase Index
The Major Purchase Index fell one point to -8 in September, up eight points from September last year.

Savings Index
The Savings Index is up five points to +27, five points higher than this time last year. This measure is commented on but not included in the Overall Index Score.

Source : GfK Consumer Confidence Barometer powered by NIM

Image : ColobusYeti / iStock / 883054240

For all the very latest news and intelligence on the UK's largest home improvement and garden retailers, sign up for the Insight DIY weekly newsletter.