Use of buy-now-pay-later loans rising most rapidly among middle-aged households, UK survey finds

A survey of nearly 6,000 UK households warns of a sharp increase in those aged 40–59 years using buy-now-pay-later loans (BNPL). These loans are currently accessed by 18% of UK households (up from 15% in May 2025) and while BNPL use is highest among younger households, growth has been fastest among those aged 40–59 years.