Uk Consumer Sentiment Falls as Iran War Rages, Kpmg Says

LONDON, March 25 (Reuters) - British consumer sentiment this month was slightly weaker than three months earlier, pushed down by worries about grocery and energy costs linked to the conflict in the Middle East, according to a quarterly survey from accountants KPMG.

Half of people who thought the economy was worsening had cut spending as a consequence, and 40% of them were deferring major purchases, up from 34% three months ago.

"Considering the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and the actual and potential impact on energy and grocery prices, it is not a surprise that we are seeing heightened consumer concern about the economic health of the UK," said Linda Ellett, head of consumer, retail and leisure for KPMG UK.

Following are further key points from the release:

• 62% of Britons thought the economy was weakening, up from 58% in Q4 2025
• 85% of those who judged the economy to be weakening cited the cost of groceries, followed by 84% mentioning utility bills and 52% the cost of eating or drinking out
• 25% described their financial situation as "insecure", up from 22% in Q4
• The poll was based on a sample of 3,000 people and took place from March 5 to March 16