Across the UK, consumers are more likely to shop as the country’s Covid-19 vaccination programme accelerates, according to data from Kantar. For the 12 weeks to 16 May, shoppers spent € 58 million more shopping than in the same period last year. Consumer confidence remains high and even increased last month.

Economic activity in the United Kingdom continued to grow in May. This was shown on Friday by preliminary figures from Markit Economics.

The combined purchasing managers index for the United Kingdom rose from 60.7 in April to 62.0 in May, the highest point since January 1998. An index of 62.3 was provided by economists.

The purchasing managers index for the services sector rose from 61,0 to 61.8. The preliminary index for industry from 60.9 to 66.1, the highest point since January 1992. This was expected to be 62.5 and 61.0 respectively.