Modest consumption growth

Dutch household consumption growth was once again modest in March 2007. Households spent 1.2 percent more on goods and services than in March 2006. They spent 1.8 percent more on services, such as public transport and communication, and 0.6 percent more on goods.

Just as in January and in February, in March consumption growth was curbed by a low energy use. Households spent a lot less on heating because of the mild weather. Therefore, in the first quarter, consumption growth was lower than in 2006.

Consumers spent 7.6 percent more on durable goods in March. This is more than in January and February. Clothes and household appliances were popular.

The figures are adjusted for price changes and differences in the number of shopping days. March 2007 had one Wednesday fewer and one Saturday more than March 2006. Consumption of food, drink and tobacco in particular, which are more often purchased on Saturdays than on Wednesdays, was reduced by this adjustment.

Domestic household consumption (volume)