Consumers are becoming increasingly worried about their finances, but less concerned about their health, according to new research by Deloitte.
The data shows that there has been a further increase in Irish consumers’ confidence in retuning to in-person activities.
For the second month in a row, consumer confidence in visiting physical stores is up by 4%,
Consumer confidence in going to a restaurant is also up 4%, while confidence in attending in-person events is up 6% and concern around returning to the workplace is down by 4%.
Deloitte’s latest data was gathered between 25 and 31 March, as the country remained under full Level 5 restrictions.
Consumers' concerns around financial issues and employment saw an increase when compared to the previous wave of research, conducted four weeks prior.
Concern around making upcoming payments increased by 6%, with concern around job losses up by 3%.
Overall concern for their own physical wellbeing decreased by 3% and concern around the health of their families was down by 1%.
Daniel Murray, Partner and Head of Consumer at Deloitte Ireland, said with many sectors remaining shut, it is unsurprising that consumers are concerned about their financial circumstances.
"The supports that the Government has provided to businesses and people alike have been a lifeline to many over the last year, so the transition away from these supports must be considered carefully to give everyone the best chance at a swift return to stability," he said.
"As more people get vaccinated, consumer confidence will grow as we move forward and, hopefully, continue to move away from heavy restrictions and towards a new, post-pandemic Ireland," he added.
