Changes in UK consumer spending habits between 1971 and 2001

The two pie charts illustrate the distribution of consumer spending in the UK across seven categories in 1971 and 2001. Overall, it is clear that while food was the primary expense in 1971, cars became the dominant category by 2001, reflecting a major shift in household priorities.

In 1971, food accounted for the largest proportion of spending at 44%, followed by cars at 22%. Petrol, furniture, and restaurants represented smaller shares at 10%, 9%, and 7% respectively, while books and computers made up the remaining 8%. By 2001, the expenditure on food had plummeted to 14%, matching the proportion spent on restaurants. Conversely, spending on cars nearly doubled to reach 43%, making it the most significant category.

Other notable changes include the rise of computer-related spending, which grew from 2% to 12% over the three decades. In contrast, the proportion of income allocated to books fell significantly from 6% to just 1%. Meanwhile, spending on petrol and furniture remained relatively stable, experiencing minor fluctuations to 8% each by 2001. These figures highlight a clear transition towards technology and personal transport at the expense of basic necessities.