Household consumption up by almost 1 percent in November

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 December shows that conditions for household consumption in the Netherlands in December were, on balance, less favourable than they were in November.

Higher spending on goods and services

Households spent 2.3 percent more on durable goods (adjusted for price changes) than they did in November 2023. They bought more electrical appliances and cars, in particular. Consumers also spent 1.5 percent more on other goods, such as energy and personal care products. However, spending on food, beverages and tobacco was down by 0.9 percent.

Consumers spent 0.6 percent more on services compared to the previous year, adjusted for price changes. They spent more on transportation and communication, and recreation and cultural services, in particular. Spending on services makes up over half of all domestic household consumption.

Consumer climate less favourable in December

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 December, conditions for Dutch household consumption in December were less favourable than they were in November. This was mainly because manufacturers were more negative about future employment.