Retailers have been battling for share of spend against each other as well as other consumer industries – a trend likely to continue in 2016.

Consumer2016 Infographic

Consumer2016 Infographic

 

Source: Visa Europe monthly UK Consumer Index showing average monthly growth rates between November 2014 and November 2015 for each category. The index is based on card spending and adjusted by Markit to give an accurate indication of consumer spending trends overall.

Leisure and hospitality have led the way in capturing consumers’ cash, particularly hotels, bars and restaurants.

Visa Europe UK and Ireland managing director Kevin Jenkins observes: “A number of factors drove this behaviour, from employment hitting a fresh high to muted inflation, and continued low interest rates.

”These, combined with other factors like dropping fuel prices at the pumps and the ongoing price war among food retailers, meant people were able to spend more on things they enjoy, particularly going away, eating out, and entertaining.”