Consumer card spending in furniture stores rose slightly during February when compared to last year, says new data from Barclays.

According to the latest Barclays Consumer Spending Index, which includes both debit and credit cards, furniture store spending growth increased 0.5%, while transaction growth was up 1.4% against the same month last year.

Home improvement and DIY stores saw spending growth decline -3.1%, with transaction growth down -5.6%. Department stores saw spending growth decrease -1.9%, with transaction growth up by 0.5%.

Overall, consumer card spending increased just 1.0 per cent in February – a rise from 0.8 per cent in January but less than the latest CPIH inflation rate of 3.2 per cent. Essential spend declined -0.6 per cent, but growth in non-essential spending reached a six month-high at 1.8 per cent.

Within retail; clothing (3.7 per cent), general retailers and marketplaces (4.6 per cent) and pharmacy, health & beauty (6.4 per cent) all remained in growth.

Karen Johnson, Head of Retail at Barclays, said: “February’s data highlights the careful balancing act shoppers face in navigating rising costs amidst global uncertainty. While we’re seeing a continued appetite to spend on categories such as entertainment and wellness – obtaining value for money and savvy spending will remain a strong focus in the months ahead.”