Consumer behaviour 2026 report

How UK consumers are paying, shopping and engaging with payment technologies.

A nationally representative study of more than 2,100 UK adults, providing exclusive insight into payment behaviours, digital adoption, fraud, security and emerging payment trends.

Report highlights

70%

Want both cash and cashless payment options

26%

Mobile wallets now match debit cards for everyday spending

39%

Would adopt a new payment method for better security

What you'll discover

Payment habits are evolving rapidly, but the findings reveal that consumers continue to prioritise trust, flexibility and choice alongside convenience. Understanding these behaviours is essential for merchants, PSPs, banks, fintechs and policymakers seeking to meet changing consumer expectations.

Payment behaviour

How consumers choose to pay in-store, online, abroad and for higher-value purchases.

Consumer attitudes

Perspectives on cash, digital payments, payment choice, security and fraud.

Industry insight

Analysis of demographic trends, behavioural differences and strategic implications for the payments ecosystem.

Upload your profile photo

You need to be logged in to do this!

Membership

Merchant Community Membership

Are you a member of The Payments Association?

Member benefits include free tickets, discounts to more tickets, elevated brand visibility and more. Sign in to book tickets and find out more.

Continue reading

This content is only available to members - please see instructions below!

Become a member to continue reading

Member of The Payments Association? Log in to continue reading