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 March shows that conditions for household consumption in the Netherlands in March were, on balance, more unfavourable than they were in February.

Higher spending on goods and services

Households spent 0.7 percent more on food, beverages and tobacco (adjusted for price changes) than they did in February 2024. They also spent 3.1 percent more on durable goods. They bought more clothing, footwear and electrical appliances, in particular. Consumers used 9.3 percent more other goods, such as energy in particular.

Consumers spent 0.7 percent more on services compared to the previous year, adjusted for price changes. They spent mainly more on transportation and communication. Spending on services makes up over half of all domestic household consumption.

Consumer climate more unfavourable in March

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 March, conditions for Dutch household consumption in March were more unfavourable than they were in February. This was mainly because manufacturers were less positive about future hiring and employment. Also, the year-on-year increase in share prices and house prices was smaller.