Sarah Pennells comments on the rise of inflation
Commenting on the latest ONS inflation figures, Sarah Pennells, Consumer Finance Specialist at Royal London said:
"December marked only a temporary reprieve from rising inflation and while the cost of living crisis may have eased, many people are still facing tough times financially. Royal London cost of living research shows that almost nine out of ten adults are worried about rising energy costs and just over eight in ten about higher food bills.
"If inflation continues rising as forecast this year, it could put the most vulnerable at further financial risk. One in ten adults currently say they couldn’t afford any unexpected bill - no matter how small - from either their savings or income. With wholesale gas prices recently reaching their highest level for two years, many will be concerned about consumer energy prices and this inflation data will only increase anxiety about everyday costs such as energy bills."
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About Royal London
Royal London is the UK's largest customer-owned life, pensions, and investment company, and one of the top 30 mutuals globally*. With over 160 years of heritage and no external shareholders, we're able to take a long-term view, focusing on supporting better outcomes for our customers.
Today, Royal London looks after 8.4 million life and pension policies, with £212 billion of assets under management and over 5,000 colleagues**. In 2026, we shared £199 million of our profits with approximately 2.4 million eligible customers.
We invest in partnerships that reflect our values, including being the only Founding Partner of the first British & Irish Lions Women's Team, supporting women's and girls' rugby across grassroots and elite levels to help develop the next generation of players and coaches. All driven by our commitment to doing what's right for our customers.
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*Based on total 2024 premium income. International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation Global data, 2026.
**Figures quoted are as at 30 June 2026.