Drinking out spend increased by 6% in January, despite ‘Dry January’ abstinence, according to the latest Leisure Spend Tracker from Greene King.
However, while drinking spend was up year-on-year, eating out spend fell by 2% compared to January 2015. The average British household spent £184 on out of home leisure during the first month of the year, a 16% decline in spending compared to December, but a 1% increase in leisure spend year-on-year. Eating out spend fell by £12 (14%) compared to December, while other leisure spending dropped by 18% to £16.
Fiona Gunn, Greene King group marketing director, said: 'The figures suggest that many British households are optimistic ahead of next month’s Budget as the UK economy continues to show signs of improvement. However, while there is an expectation of lower taxes and higher wages, it remains to be seen whether any budget measures will translate into increased spending.'
The Leisure Spend Tracker found that just under half of British adults (49%) are aware of the Government’s Budget in March. Of those that do, 37% expect an increase to the tax free personal allowance; 32% expect a rise in the national minimum wage; and 21% think there will be a reduction in corporation tax. However, around 41% of respondents believe the Budget will have little impact on their current level of leisure spending.
