60% RISE in non-essential spending as lockdown eases, says Swindon's Nationwide
It seems that many people across the UK have been enjoying their newly-found freedoms
Last updated 28th Jul 2021
It looks like many people have been making the most of their newly-found freedoms over recent months.
That is according to new data released by Nationwide, which has its UK headquarters in Swindon.
According to the Building Society, its members spent 60% more on non-essential items between April and June 2020 - compared to the previous three months. This follows the easing of numerous lockdown restrictions during the second quarter (Q2) of 2021.
Non-essential shops, salons - and pubs and restaurants with outdoor dining - were allowed to re-open on April 12.
Five weeks later, hotels, cinemas and theatres - as well as indoor pubs and restaurants - were permitted to welcome customers through their doors once again.
'We'll see people really desperate to go out there'
Mark Nalder, Nationwide's Head of Payments, has told us he expects the rise in non-essential spending to continue for the rest of this year:
"There will be things like cancelled weddings, big birthday celebrations - whether it's your 50th, 21st, 18th. There have been lots of delays of that activity.
"I absolutely think we'll see people really desperate to go out there and celebrate may be things they weren't able to celebrate for the last 18 months".
Brits step-up 'empathy' for good causes
When analysing 566 million card transactions during Q2 of 2021, Nationwide also found that members were being more generous with charities.
They collectively donated £133.7 million - 16% higher than the corresponding figure between January and March of this year.
"I think there is a real empathy, from those that are fortunate to still be at work and have got through (the pandemic)," Mr Nalder added.