Household consumption up by over 1 percent in August

These are volume figures, which means they have been adjusted for price changes. In addition, they have been adjusted for differences in the shopping day pattern. The CBS Consumption Radar shows that conditions for Dutch household consumption in September were less unfavourable than they were in August.

Higher spending on durable goods

Households spent 1.9 percent more on durable goods than they did in August 2024, adjusted for price changes. In particular, they purchased more footwear, clothing and electrical appliances. Spending on food, beverages, and tobacco was up by 0.3 percent compared to August 2024. Households spent 1.0 percent less on other goods (energy, motor fuels and personal care products), year on year.

Consumers spent 1.9 percent more on services in August than they did in the same month last year (adjusted for price changes). They spent more on transport and communication, and accommodation and food services. Spending on services accounted for over half of total domestic consumer expenditure.

Consumer climate less unfavourable in September

Every month, CBS publishes figures about the conditions for household consumption in its Consumption Radar. Household consumption is influenced by factors such as consumer expectations, their personal financial situation and labour market conditions. Although the Radar indicators are closely correlated with household consumption, improved conditions do not necessarily translate into an increase in consumption.

According to the CBS Consumption Radar for September, conditions for Dutch household consumption were less unfavourable in September than they were in August. This was mainly because consumers were less negative about their financial situation in the next twelve months and the year-on-year growth of the employed labour force was larger.