The latest data from analysts Worldpanel by Numerator has shown take-home grocery sales increased by 4.4% in the four weeks to 22 March, compared with the same period in 2025.
As scrutiny over the impact of the conflict in the Middle East increases, the rate of like-for-like grocery inflation held steady at 4.3%. Even prior to the war, more than 20% of Britons described themselves as financially struggling, Worldpanel added, with over 60% very or extremely concerned about the rising price of groceries.
Each additional 1% on the rate of inflation could add more than £50 to the annual supermarket bill for the average household. Additionally, 42% said they were worried about rising fuel prices - a proportion certain to increase as the cost of petrol and diesel have risen.
Fraser McKevitt, head of retail and consumer insight at Worldpanel by Numerator, said of the results: “Financial anxiety among British consumers was already running high before the conflict began. With grocery inflation likely to increase and fuel costs rising sharply, the conditions that make shoppers feel vulnerable are only intensifying.
Shoppers will look to lessen the impact on their baskets when faced with rising prices, and while there remains a level of uncertainty, we’re watching the data closely for behavioural changes like trading down and switching, which often emerge during periods of economic pressure.”
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