The Russians began to emerge from austerity – RBC

Photo: Yekaterina Kuzmina / RBC

The Russians in the second quarter of 2015 began to gradually withdraw from the” austerity “and become more willing to make purchases, despite the fact that the vast majority continues to reduce waste. This is evidenced by the results of the survey research company Nielsen, received by RBC.

In the first quarter, 27% of Russian consumers become more confident in the prospects for the labor market (7 percentage points compared to the preceding quarter) . Also it increased the number of those who consider the current situation favorable for shopping (25% of respondents, 4 percentage points more than in the first quarter). The number of Russians positively evaluating their financial condition, increased slightly and reached 35% of the respondents (+1 percentage points in the last quarter).

This trend CEO of Nielsen Russia’s Ilona Lepp explains that Russians moved from “shock».

«played a role and the overall stabilization of the foreign exchange market, and slowing the rise in prices, and the fact that in recent months, consumers have adapted, accustomed to the new price level. Moreover, a magnificent celebration of the Victory Day distracted by economic problems, awakened patriotic sentiments, and give a sense of well-being “, – she said.

Despite the positive trend, the Russians have not given up on spending cuts. Most still saving on clothing (56%) outside of the home entertainment (54%) and the product (46%). At the same time 6% of Russians have ceased to save on alcohol and buy cheap brands (in the second quarter of the remaining 24% against 30% in the first quarter). Decreased the number of those who in order to save the car became less frequent use (14% in the first quarter to 8% in the second quarter), smoke less (17% versus 13%) and to postpone updating appliances and electronics (43% vs. 38%).

The consumer confidence index, compiled by the American Sociological quarterly company Nielsen, in the second quarter of 2015 for the first 6 months showed growth – index rose six positions compared to the preceding quarter.