Household consumption up by over 1 percent in July

Households spent 1.2 percent more on goods and services in July, year on year, according to figures released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS). They bought more goods, in particular. In June, consumption grew by 1.7 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 August were less unfavourable than they were in July.

More spending on durable goods

Spending on durable goods was up by 3.1 percent. Households spent more on passenger cars, clothing, electrical appliances, footwear and home furnishing. They also spent 2.0 percent more on food, beverages and tobacco in July 2026 than they did in July 2025, adjusted for price changes. Households spent 0.4 percent more on other goods (like energy and personal care products), year on year.

Consumers spent 0.5 percent more on services in July, year on year (adjusted for price changes). More was spent on transport and communication, medical services, recreation and culture, and housing. Spending on services accounted for over half of total domestic consumer expenditure.

Consumer climate less unfavourable in August

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 these indicators are closely correlated with household consumption, improved conditions do not necessarily translate into an increase in consumption.

For August 2026, the conditions for household consumption in the Netherlands were less unfavourable than they were in July. This was mainly because manufacturers were more positive about future employment in their company. Also, consumers were less negative about future unemployment.