Over the next three months, consumer expectations of the state of the economy stood at -43 in June, up from -48 in May.

But personal spending on retail fell to +5 in June from +7 in May.

The proportion of people concerned that conflict in the Middle East could increase the price of non-food remained at 74% in June, the same as in May.

Over the next three months, consumer expectations of spending on clothing or fashion is 15% lower compared to the previous three months.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:
“Consumer confidence ticked up again in June, with people feeling slightly less pessimistic about both the economy and their personal finances. This coincided with a lull in the Middle East conflict at the start of June, easing concerns about energy prices and inflation. Although retail spending intentions dipped, this is likely due to lower inflation expectations, rather than weakening demand. It’s all to play for as fast-moving events in the Middle East and at home could shake consumer confidence or allow the improvements to gain momentum next month. 

“Job prospects remain crucial. The loss of 66,000 retail jobs over the last year will do little to keep confidence moving in the right direction, particularly for young people and others struggling to take their first steps on the career ladder. Government policies that increase the costs and complexity of employing people, particularly the young, risk undermining both employment prospects and the recovery in consumer confidence.”