Newly released figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) have confirmed Lincolnshire as a standout success story in economic resilience and consumer confidence. Household spending growth has significantly outpaced neighbouring regions over the past decade.

According to the data, household expenditure per person in Lincolnshire rose from £12,854 in 2009 to £22,469 in 2022—an impressive increase that exceeds national and regional averages. By contrast, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire saw more moderate growth from £14,493 to £19,763, while Leicestershire, Rutland, and Northamptonshire recorded a slower rise from £13,542 to £19,104.

A Turning Point for Lincolnshire’s Economy

While Lincolnshire historically trailed behind national spending trends, a notable shift occurred post-2018. Since 2019, the county has demonstrated exceptional economic momentum, recovering swiftly from the temporary dip in 2020 and surging past pre-pandemic levels by 2022. This marks Lincolnshire as one of the UK’s most dynamic regions in terms of consumer spending.

Sector Strength: Where Lincolnshire Excels

Digging deeper into the spending data, Lincolnshire’s success is evident across key sectors:

  • Food & Drink: Consumer expenditure on food and drink has grown faster here than in neighbouring areas, reflecting a thriving hospitality industry and strong retail demand.
  • Housing & Home Improvements: Rising property values and increased homeowner investment have led to a significant jump in housing-related spending, outpacing nearby counties.
  • Transportation: Spending on transport has surged, possibly due to improved regional connectivity and a greater reliance on personal vehicles, given Lincolnshire’s rural landscape.
  • Leisure & Tourism: Strong disposable income growth is mirrored in increased spending on entertainment, tourism, and recreational activities, suggesting renewed consumer confidence.

A Conservative-Led Success Story?

This spending boom coincides with a period of Conservative-led local governance, underscoring Lincolnshire’s ability to foster economic growth and prosperity. Compared to neighbouring regions, which have seen more modest increases, Lincolnshire’s approach to financial management, investment, and infrastructure appears to have yielded positive results.

Economic analysts suggest that higher employment levels, strategic investments, and population growth have all contributed to this upward trend. As spending habits evolve post-pandemic, Lincolnshire stands out as a model of economic resilience and opportunity, positioning itself for further investment and continued prosperity.

With businesses, local authorities, and residents all benefiting from this robust growth, Lincolnshire’s strong performance is an encouraging sign for the county’s future—one that other regions may look to for inspiration.