---
source: BRC - British Retail Consortium
url: https://brc.org.uk/market-intelligence/publications/monitors/shop-price-monitor/
document_type: html
date_retrieved: 2026-03-30
period: March 2026
parent_publication: BRC-NielsenIQ Shop Price Index
indicators_covered: [Shop Price Inflation]
---

# BRC-NielsenIQ Shop Price Index, March 2026

**Shop price inflation rose to 1.2% in March 2026**, up slightly from 1.1% in February. The data, compiled by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and NielsenIQ, reflects a modest pickup in price pressures across the UK retail sector following a period of easing inflation in early 2026.

## Key Figures

| Indicator | March 2026 (Actual) | February 2026 (Previous) |
|-----------|----------------------|--------------------------|
| **Shop Price Index (YoY)** | **1.2%** | **1.1%** |

## Analysis

The 1.2% reading for March represents a slight acceleration in retail price growth. Earlier in the year, shop price inflation had shown signs of stabilizing:
- **January 2026:** 1.5% (driven by energy costs and tax changes)
- **February 2026:** 1.1% (retailer competition leading to easing)
- **March 2026:** 1.2% (current release)

The BRC noted that while retailers continue to compete on price, underlying cost pressures—including those related to the Middle East conflict and rising energy prices—have begun to filter through to shop shelves. Consumer confidence has reportedly taken a hit in March due to these persistent inflation fears, reaching record lows in some surveys.

## Methodology

The BRC-NielsenIQ Shop Price Index tracks the price of 500 of the most commonly bought items across UK retailers, covering both food and non-food categories. It is a key leading indicator for broader Consumer Price Index (CPI) trends in the United Kingdom.

---
*Note: The official publication for this release is typically gated for BRC members. This document is synthesized from verified BRC announcement summaries and financial data feeds reporting the 1.2% actual figure.*