UK economy unexpectedly grows 0.1% in August despite fall in consumer spending

The Guardian reports: Latest data comes just two weeks before chancellor’s budget looks to help consumers traverse the cost of living crisis The UK economy unexpectedly continued to grow in August despite a fall in consumer spending before chancellor John Healey’s budget.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics showed gross domestic product (GDP) rose by 0.1% last month, compared with 0.4% growth in July. City economists had forecast the economy would shrink by 0.1%.

This business story centres on the United Kingdom. Names and organisations mentioned in the coverage include UK, John Healey and Office for National Statistics.

Why it matters

Moves like this are watched by investors, employers and consumers because of their potential effect on markets and the wider economy.

Key details

Location

United Kingdom · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

15 Oct 2026, 11:35 IST

Key names

UK, John Healey, Office for National Statistics, GDP

Section

Business

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianUK economy unexpectedly grows 0.1% in August despite fall in consumer spending 15 Oct, 11:35

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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