Household consumption up by 2.6 percent in September

These are volume figures, which means they are adjusted for price changes. In addition, they have been adjusted for differences in the shopping-day pattern. The CBS Consumption Radar for October shows that conditions for household consumption in the Netherlands in October were, on balance, more favourable than they were in September.

Higher spending on goods and services

Households spent 7.4 percent more on durable goods (adjusted for price changes) than they did in September 2023. They bought mainly more clothing, footwear and electrical appliances. Consumers also spent 8.3 percent more on other goods, such as energy and water. September 2024 was colder than the previous year. However, spending on food, beverages and tobacco was down by 0.4 percent.

Consumers spent 0.9 percent more on services compared to the previous year, adjusted for price changes. They spent more on transportation and communication, and recreation and culture services, in particular. On the other hand, consumers spent less on accommodation and food services than in September 2023. Spending on services makes up over half of all domestic household consumption.

Consumer climate more favourable in October

Every month, CBS publishes figures about the conditions for household consumption in its Consumption Radar. Household consumption is influenced by factors such as consumer expectations, their personal financial situation and labour market conditions. Although the Radar indicators are closely correlated with household consumption, improved conditions do not necessarily translate into an increase in consumption.

According to the CBS Consumption Radar for October, conditions for Dutch household consumption in October were more favourable than they were in September. This was mainly because the year-on-year growth in the employed labour force was higher. Also, the increase in share prices and house prices was larger compared to last year.