American Express news and archive

Brits turning to AI for “smarter spending” in 2026

New research from American Express (Amex) reveals that artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping how consumers plan and make shopping decisions as they look for “savvier ways” to manage their spending in 2026. The ‘Spending Spotlight’ report states that nearly a third (29 percent) of UK adults either plan to, or will consider using,...

Retail

Hyper-personalised and tech-centric: Gen Z seek experiences beyond retail in stores

A new report by American Express has unveiled what British high streets may look like when adapting to the expectations of the Gen Z consumer group over the next 25 years. According to the data, much of this demographic – shoppers up to 28 years old – are seeking out features beyond retail from stores, expressing a desire for social hubs in...

Retail

UK retail 2025: Loyalty, AI, and experience take centre stage,

As UK fashion retail enters the second half of 2025, a wave of cautious optimism is reshaping the sector’s strategy, marked by a clear shift from transactional quick wins to deeper consumer engagement. According to American Express’s latest annual study of 500 senior retail executives, 82 percent of UK retailers plan to grow their business in...

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Business|Report

Consumers plan for value-first shopping in 2025

New research from American Express highlights how British consumers are shaping their spending priorities for 2025, revealing a strong focus on experiences, a more strategic approach to spending, and an enduring commitment to local businesses. The findings, based on a survey of 2,000 adults, reflect a desire to balance enjoyment with financial...

Retail

Brits looking for “better deals” in 2025

New research from American Express reveals that UK consumers are taking an increasingly savvier approach to their spending, while others are looking to shop small and local and search out experiences. The survey, conducted by Opinium, asked 2,000 adults in the UK about their current spending habits and preferences, as well as their intentions...

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Retail|Interview

The high street's digital-physical fusion: How Gen Z is reshaping retail

As Britain's high streets navigate an era of profound transformation, new research suggests younger consumers are far from abandoning physical retail — they are instead driving its evolution toward experience-led commerce. To understand this shifting landscape, FashionUnited spoke with Dan Edelman, Vice President and General Manager of UK...

Fashion

Retailers to leverage social marketing to drive customer engagement, says Amex research

Attracting customers and fostering loyalty has emerged as a pressing challenge for UK retailers, according to an American Express survey, prompting many to turn to social media marketing as a potential solution. The poll of 500 British merchants found that customer acquisition and retention ranked among the top three concerns for the coming...

Retail

UK Retailers embrace multifaceted strategy to boost sales, says study

New research from American Express has revealved that UK retailers are embracing a multifaceted approach to drive sales growth this year, with a strategic focus on both physical expansion and digital enhancement. Surveying 500 senior decision-makers across the retail and hospitality sectors, Amex's study delves into the challenges, investment...

Retail

March consumer confidence remains unchanged

Consumer confidence in March has remained steady despite a more optimistic outlook on personal finances. The GfK Consumer Confidence Index has stayed at -21, with a slight increase in expectations for the general economic situation over the next year and a notable rise in forecasts for personal finances, reported the Retail Bulletin. While...

Featured

Retail

Purpose more important than price for younger shoppers

According to new research from American Express, Gen Z and Millennial shoppers place purpose over price and are drawn towards lifestyle brands that align with life choices and preferences, such as sustainability. The findings reveal that one-third (33 percent) of 18-34-year-olds said they are more loyal to brands with a positive corporate...

Retail

Blackpink to open a pop-up in London

South Korean K-pop girl group Blackpink is opening a pop-up experience in London to give fans access to a limited-edition merchandise collection. The pop-up will run from June 29 to July 1 at 1 Marylebone Road, presented by American Express, and will see Japanese graphic artist Verdy serving as artistic director. The three-day event, produced by...

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Retail

Considered shopping to drive holiday season sales

High on the list for the majority of shoppers this Black Friday are essential items on sale. New data from American Express shows 21 percent of consumers will be gifting essential items this holiday season and over 70 percent will be looking to purchase goods on sale. A further 52 percent of consumers say they are more likely to shop with a...