Household consumption down in February

These are the most recent figures on this topic. View the previous figures here.
© Hollandse Hoogte / Richard Brocken

Households spent 0.5 percent less on goods and services in February, year on year, according to figures released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS). In January 2026, consumption decreased by 0.3 percent.

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. Conditions for Dutch household consumption in March were more unfavourable than they were in February.

Slightly more services, fewer goods

Consumers spent 0.1 percent more on services in February than they did in the same month of 2025 (adjusted for price changes). Spending on medical services, transport and communication and housing services increased, but decreased for accommodation and food services and recreation and culture. Spending on services accounted for over half of total domestic consumer expenditure.

Households spent 0.3 percent more on food, beverages, and tobacco in February 2026 than they did in February 2025, adjusted for price changes. However, spending on durable goods was down by 1.1 percent. In particular, households spent less on passenger cars and clothing. Furthermore, households spent 3.9 percent less on other goods (like energy and motor fuels), year on year.

Consumer climate more unfavourable in March

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

For March 2026, conditions for Dutch household consumption were more unfavourable than they were in February. This was mainly because consumers were more negative about their financial situation in the next twelve months and manufacturers were less positive about future employment in their company.

Sources

Related items