The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that sofa beds are dropping in popularity in its latest ‘basket of goods and services’ data.

According to its annual changes to the ONS inflation ‘basket of goods and services’, the virtual basket contains over 700 carefully selected items representative of the goods and services that consumers typically spend their money on.  

Within the furnishings sector, sofa beds leave the basket as coverage is “poor possibly reflecting a drop in popularity with pull-out beds possibly becoming more widespread”.

This annual updating reflects the changing tastes and habits of UK consumers and maintains the accuracy and relevance of our inflation estimates.

This year, vinyl records have returned to the basket after a resurgence in their popularity, while the air fryer has cemented its place on many a kitchen counter over the last few years with expenditure increasing over 30% between 2021 and 2022.

The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic fading from shopping habits continues with hand sanitiser disappearing from the basket in 2024 as demand has dipped dramatically.

Commenting on this year’s basket of goods, ONS Deputy Director for Prices Matt Corder said: “Our inflation basket of goods offers a fascinating snapshot of consumer spending through the years. Often the basket reflects the adoption of new technology, but the return of vinyl records shows how cultural revivals can affect our spending.

“We are also seeing the impact of the pandemic fading from the basket with the removal of hand sanitiser due to decreased demand. Healthier lifestyle products continue to influence consumer choice reflected by the addition of the air fryer, spray oils and rice cakes as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds.”