This event is open to all.


The current crisis in the Middle East represents more than just a fluctuation in oil prices; it is a fundamental shift in the global economic outlook for 2026.

Prior to these developments, inflation was expected to stabilise near 2 per cent. Now, with the Strait of Hormuz facing unprecedented disruption, businesses and households are confronting a stagflation risk: a period of low growth coupled with rising costs.

Understanding the depth of this shock is essential for any strategic planning or financial forecasting - register for this webinar to learn more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1

Energy Market Volatility

An analysis of the recent surges in Brent Crude and wholesale gas prices following the disruption of key shipping routes.

2

Inflationary Pressures

How the sudden rise in energy and fertiliser costs is feeding into CPI forecasts and delaying anticipated interest rate cuts.

3

The Consumer Squeeze

Evaluating the hit to household disposable income as petrol prices rise and a new energy price cap looms.

4

Supply Chain

Assessing the knock-on effects up and down the supply chain, from rising logistical costs to industrial strain.

Synopsis

This session will provide a comprehensive analysis from our economist, Harvir Dhillon, on the escalating conflict in the Middle East and its immediate consequences for the retail market in the United Kingdom. We will break down the complex shift from a regional conflict to a systemic economic disruption.

 

Why is this so important?

The economic consequences are already being felt at the pump and in wholesale markets. With the Bank of England and other central banks revising their outlooks in real time, the window for proactive mitigation is closing.

Businesses must act now to navigate the volatility in energy-intensive sectors and prepare for the ripple effects on consumer confidence and spending power.

This webinar provides the timely intelligence needed to adapt to these rapidly evolving conditions.

Meet the Speakers

  • Harvir Dhillon

    Economist, BRC

    Harvir is Economist at the BRC, focussing on the big trends within the retail sector and the macroeconomy more broadly. Primarily leading on our Shop Price Index and Economic monitors, he also leads the BRC’s HR Benchmark and Payments surveys. He closely monitors economic activity, the retail labour market and the cost of living in the UK.

  • Tina Spooner

    Strategic Insight Manager, BRC

    Tina is Strategic Insight Manager at the BRC, ensuring retail members derive maximum benefit from our insight offering.

    She has over 20 years experience working in the retail industry, having previously worked at Forrester Research and IMRG.

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