Consumer confidence boosted by lockdown ease and warm weather

The June results of the IGD Shopper Confidence Index show that despite the overall consumer confidence score remaining relatively low, the data reveals an increase for the second month in a row.

The IGD Shopper Confidence Index for June is -7, up from -10 in May, and higher than the lowest point of confidence during Covid-19 in March and April.

Shopper confidence has increased across most regions, particularly Scotland, the research reveals.

Confidence has increased the most among 35-44s and those aged 55+, while older shoppers aged 45-64 remain the least confident.

Simon Wainwright, director of global insight at IGD, said: “Shoppers have been boosted by the easing of lockdown measures, the warm weather and low inflation. These factors may be holding back any reversal in shopper confidence for now.

“The economic impact of Covid-19, including rising levels of unemployment, is likely to have a big impact on shopper confidence going forward. An increased focus on savvy shopping can be expected where value becomes more important long term.”