Another inflation rise in August
The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by 3.1% in the 12 months to August 2026, up from 2.9% the previous month.
17 Sep 2026
The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by 3.1% in the 12 months to August 2026, up from 2.9% the previous month.
The largest contributor to the CPI increase was transport, particularly motor fuels. With expectations of further CPI rises over the next few months, this is causing pressure for both businesses and individuals.
In a British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) survey of 5,000 firms, 66% of respondents stated inflation was their main concern and Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the BCC has called on the Chancellor to address this at the next budget stating:
'It's crucial the Chancellor looks to ease business cost burdens at next month's Budget. We're calling for a targeted tax reduction package to ease energy and business rate pressures for all firms.'
James Smith, Chief Economist at the Resolution Foundation focused on support for families:
'With money tight and living costs rising, the Government should resist throwing money at costly blanket support. It would get far more bang for its buck by targeting help at lower-income families feeling the squeeze most – through targeted energy discounts – if bills rise sharply in January as now looks increasingly likely.'
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