UK retail inflation rises as cost pressures mount
MSN·- UK shop price inflation increased to 1.2% in May due to rising energy costs and supply chain disruptions. - Retailers are absorbing costs but warn that ongoing pressures complicate efforts to maintain low prices. - The industry anticipates that inflation will remain "sticky" in 2026, influenced by external shocks affecting prices.UK consumer services sentiment hits lowest in over a year
MSN·- UK consumer services optimism has sharply declined, with business services sentiment also becoming negative. - Costs are increasing faster than prices, resulting in the steepest profitability drop since 2020 and leading to cuts in capital spending. - Ongoing energy price shocks and global tensions are projected to maintain persistent inflation through 2026, further straining demand.