Inflation pressures back-to-school spending in US and Spain

Families in the United States and Spain are facing increased financial pressure during the 2026 back-to-school season due to rising costs and inflation.

In the United States, children's footwear prices have risen by 7% compared to last year. According to analysis from Circana, this price hike has led to a 9% decrease in the number of pairs purchased. Parents are increasingly price-comparing and seeking versatile, economical models to manage household budgets. Data shows that while the average selling price rose by 7% between January and June 2026, total pairs sold dropped by 9%.

In Spain, the 2026-2027 school year is expected to see a rise in online spending. A report by Webloyalty indicates that the average online order for school supplies will reach 198 euros, a 9% increase from the previous year. This trend occurs alongside an annual inflation rate of 3.5% in Spain, driven largely by energy costs. The increase in spending is fueled by high-cost categories such as electronics, books, and uniforms.