“The revival in confidence has stalled. Although the economy is picking up speed, the population as a whole isn’t feeling the benefit of the recovery. People are as likely to say that they feel worse off than they did a year ago as they are to say that their finances have improved.

The headline data, though, mask major differences between different income groups. Higher earners are powering ahead: their finances are improving, and they are becoming increasingly optimistic about their prospects over the coming year. Those at the lower end of the income scale, though, are much less positive. The polarisation seen in the high street is likely to continue: premium brands should benefit from the growing confidence among the more affluent, while lower earners will still be turning to the discounters in an attempt to make the most of their money.”

– Toby Clark, Director of Research, EMEA

This report looks at the following issues:

The change in consumer confidence over the last year

Spending behaviour and intentions.

The difference in confidence among higher and lower earners