Category : Search result: consumer trends 2026


Retail sales drop 1.1% in pre-Budget blow

UK retail sales fell 1.1% in October, a disappointing start to the festive season. Shoppers turned cautious ahead of the Budget and Black Friday. Discover the full impact on the sector.

Trump's 'Affordability' Campaign: A Hot Mess

Analysis of Trump's chaotic post-election affordability drive, revealing contradictions, magical thinking, and economic missteps. Discover the real impact on US voters.

Consumer confidence falls ahead of Budget 2025

New data reveals a sharp fall in UK consumer confidence amid tax hike fears, while the jobs market shows fragile signs of recovery. London's DLR extension gets a £1.7bn boost. Read the full analysis.

US May Delay Trump's Semiconductor Tariffs

US officials privately indicate potential delay in Trump's promised 100% semiconductor tariffs to avoid trade war with China and consumer price concerns. Full analysis.

Late supermarket delivery? How to claim your refund

Was your grocery delivery late? Discover your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and how to claim a refund from Tesco, Asda, Ocado, Morrisons, and Waitrose. Act now to get your money back.

Lost Delivery? Your Consumer Rights Explained

Discover your legal rights when a parcel fails to arrive. Learn why your contract is with the retailer, not the courier, and the steps to secure a refund under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

UK inflation falls to 3.6% in October

UK inflation is forecast to have cooled to 3.6% in October, down from 3.8%. This could ease pressure on households and influence the Chancellor's upcoming budget. Read the latest analysis.

Booking.com and hotel chains ads banned over prices

The ASA has banned ads from Booking.com, Accor, Travelodge, and Hilton for misleading consumers about room availability at advertised 'from' prices. Discover the full story and what it means for your travel bookings.

Watchdog warns 100+ firms over online pricing

The UK competition watchdog is cracking down on over 100 companies for online pricing. Learn your consumer rights and how to save money during Sky News Money's Consumer Rights Week.

CMA investigates 8 companies over unfair pricing

The Competition and Markets Authority is investigating AA Driving School, Gold's Gym and six other companies over hidden fees and misleading sales practices. Learn how to protect yourself.

CMA cracks down on misleading online pricing

The UK's competition watchdog investigates eight companies and warns 100 more over hidden fees and pressure selling. Discover how this protects your consumer rights.

Hidden Card Service Could Save You Hundreds

Discover how chargeback schemes can help you recover money for undelivered or defective goods. Learn eligibility criteria, time limits and step-by-step claiming process from financial experts.

UK Watchdogs Must Act on Rip-Off Bills

New report reveals how complex contracts and poor regulation in services from mobiles to insurance are fuelling inflation and shortchanging UK consumers. Calls for stronger watchdog action.

John Lewis Christmas Ad Faces Consumer Backlash

Guardian readers criticise John Lewis's Christmas advert as a cynical ploy exploiting family values to drive sales, questioning its portrayal of gender roles and masculinity.

2026 UK & European Festival Line-Ups Revealed

Plan your 2026 summer with the best UK and European music festivals. From Glastonbury's break to exclusive Lily Allen shows and world-class headliners across Europe.

Page 3 of 4