Barclaycard reveals how trading figures have increased two years on from first lockdown

Please find below new data from Barclaycard Payments revealing how trading figures in the UK have increased two years on from the first Covid-19 lockdown. Quote from Rob Cameron, CEO, Barclaycard Payments also below.

Data from Barclaycard Payments, which processes nearly £1 in every £3 spent on credit and debit cards in the UK, shows that over the weekend (18-20 March 2022) transaction volumes increased in for a number of businesses, including:

• • Pubs and Bars:
    • 83.2 per cent up, compared to the same weekend in 2019*
    • 476.1 per cent up, compared to the same weekend in 2020** (the last weekend before the first COVID-19 lockdown)
  • Amusement Parks:
    • 144.7 per cent up, compared to the same weekend in 2019*
    • 1094.2 per cent up, compared to the same weekend in 2020**
  • Restaurants:
    • 19.6 per cent up, compared to the same weekend in 2019*
    • 142.2 per cent up, compared to the same weekend in 2020**

Rob Cameron, CEO, Barclaycard Payments said: “Two years on since the first national lockdown, businesses, particularly those in the Leisure, Hospitality and Entertainment sectors have gradually seen a welcome return to trade. With Spring now in the air, consumers are spending more time out of the house, and our data is showing that sectors hardest hit by Covid-19 are promisingly enjoying transaction volumes which exceed pre-pandemic levels.

“It is great to see friends and families enjoying the sunshine and showing their support for UK businesses, despite wider concerns about the cost of living. As many Brits look forward to celebrating Mother’s Day this weekend and with warm weather also on the cards, businesses will be hopeful that this positive uplift continues.”

*Comparison refers to 22-24 March, 2019

**Comparison refers to 20-22 March, 2020 – The last weekend before the first national lockdown, the reduction in consumer spending during this period may be indicative of Brits reducing social activities as Covid-19 cases increased in the UK

24/03/2022