Row rect Shape Decorative svg added to bottom CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: January 2026 Absa | Corporate and Investment Banking > Insights and Events > Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: January 2026 SHARE We are pleased to share the December 2025 edition of Absa’s Merchant Spend Analytics, which provides a view of festive season spending patterns and year‑end consumer behaviour. Following heightened festive season activity, January’s Merchant Spend Analytics Report reflects a typical post-holiday slowdown in both card spending and transaction volumes. This moderation aligns with expected consumer behaviour as households recalibrate after year-end expenditure. Despite this month-on-month (MoM) decline, year-on-year (YoY) performance remains resilient. Card spending increased by 5% while transaction volumes continued to grow, highlighting sustained underlying demand. A notable development during the month was the recovery in average transaction values, signalling a shift towards larger basket sizes as consumers consolidate purchases. Spending behaviour also points to a changing payments landscape. While debit cards remain the dominant method, credit card usage accelerated, particularly across categories such as Clothing, Food and Health and Beauty. At the same time, in-store spending marginally outpaced online, suggesting a gradual recovery in physical retail, while online growth is increasingly being driven by smaller, service-oriented categories. Key insights On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, overall card spending remains positive, although growth has slowed as economic pressures persist. While categories such as Food, Clothing and Health and Beauty continue to show growth, performance across sectors remains uneven, reflecting a more cautious and selective consumer. A key shift in January is the recovery in average transaction value, suggesting that consumers are consolidating purchases into larger baskets. At the same time, the combination of moderated growth and ongoing cost pressures indicates that spending behaviour is becoming more deliberate, with consumers prioritising value and essential purchases. Download the latest Report https://cib.absa.africa/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/file_example_MP3_700KB.mp3 Related Articles CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: December 2025 We are pleased to share the December 2025 edition of Absa’s Merchant Spend Analytics, which provides a view of festive season spending patterns and year‑end consumer behaviour. Read more CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: October 2025 After September’s subdued activity, October’s Merchant Spend Analytics Report reflects a measured but meaningful rebound. Card spending increased by 4%, while transaction volumes rose 2%, supported by the highest average ticket value recorded this year. This steady improvement reinforces Q4’s reputation as retail’s stabilising force, offering early signs of renewed confidence. Read more CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: August 2025 Card spending fluctuates amid retailer campaigns and consumer caution. Card spending remained volatile, with August recording a 4.2% decline following a strong rebound in July. This fluctuation is largely driven by seasonal sales and targeted retailer campaigns. Read more
