Household spending falling during lockdown but groceries, alcohol and hobby sectors boosted by ‘isolation economy’

‘The home is becoming a more flexible space, doubling up as a place for schooling, work, fitness and entertaining,’ says expert

UK households are spending more on groceries, alcohol, entertainment and hobbies than they did before the lockdown, researchers have found.

Consumers splashed out an average of £107 a week in these key ”at home” sectors — an increase of 10 per cent.

However overall spending fell by the equivalent of £215bn per year as a result of the “isolation economy” during the coronavirus pandemic.