Experian Finds BNPL Growth Among Older Consumers as FCA Rules Approach

Experian Finds BNPL Growth Among Older Consumers as FCA Rules Approach

(IN BRIEF) Experian analysis shows that Buy Now Pay Later continues to grow in the UK, with more than 100 million BNPL transactions recorded across 8.5 million customers in 2025. The transactions were worth more than £7 billion, while 98.5% of balances were repaid on time. The findings come ahead of the Financial Conduct Authority’s first regulation of the BNPL sector from 15 July 2026, which will introduce clearer information, affordability checks and support for customers struggling with repayments. BNPL usage remained strong in March 2026, with more than 9 million transactions across nearly 4 million consumers, worth £621 million. Average transaction values were around £60, indicating that many consumers use BNPL for lower-value everyday spending. While 25-34-year-olds remain the largest user group, Experian reported strong growth among older consumers, including a 46% year-on-year rise among those aged 65-74 and a 53% increase among those aged 75 and over.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 13-Jul-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — New analysis from Experian shows that Buy Now Pay Later continues to grow in popularity in the UK, with consumers using the payment option for millions of everyday purchases.

According to Experian’s analysis, more than 100 million Buy Now Pay Later transactions were recorded across 8.5 million customers in 2025. The total value of those transactions exceeded £7 billion.

The data also indicates that most users are keeping up with repayments. Experian found that 98.5% of BNPL balances were repaid on time, suggesting that the vast majority of customers are using the payment option responsibly.

The findings come as the Financial Conduct Authority prepares to regulate the Buy Now Pay Later sector for the first time from 15 July. The new framework will introduce additional consumer protections, including clearer information, affordability checks and access to support for customers who experience repayment difficulties.

BNPL usage has continued to grow in 2026. In March alone, Experian recorded more than 9 million transactions across nearly 4 million consumers, with spending worth £621 million.

Average transaction values remain relatively modest, at around £60. Experian said this suggests consumers are typically using BNPL for lower-value, everyday purchases rather than larger purchases.

The analysis also shows that Buy Now Pay Later is not limited to younger consumers. While people aged 25 to 34 remain the largest user group, adoption is increasing across all age ranges.

Growth has been particularly strong among older consumers. Customer volumes among people aged 65 to 74 rose by 46% year on year, while usage among consumers aged 75 and over increased by 53%.

John Webb, Head of Consumer Affairs at Experian UK&I, said BNPL has become a convenient tool for people of different ages managing monthly budgets.

“It’s clear people of all ages have enjoyed the convenience of BNPL, helping them managing their monthly budgets affectively and without getting into difficulty,” said Webb.

He added that, as with any form of borrowing, consumers should understand the commitments they are taking on and monitor future repayments carefully.

Webb also noted that each new BNPL account will appear on a person’s credit report, which lenders may consider when assessing applications for products such as loans, credit cards or mortgages.

Experian said its analysis is based on BNPL payments reported to the company. BNPL providers report repayment data to credit reference agencies, helping lenders assess affordability and creditworthiness. Experian also stated that BNPL data does not affect a person’s Experian Credit Score.

About Experian

Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. We help to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using our unique combination of data, analytics and platforms. We also assist millions of people to realise their financial goals and help them to save time and money.

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Media Contact: 

Robert Goodman
Senior Media Relations Manager, Experian UK&I
Tel: +44 7989 398 498
Email: Robert.Goodman@Experian.com

SOURCE: Experian