As UK consumers navigate ongoing cost-of-living pressures, affordability and convenience remain decisive factors in where and how they shop. According to new research conducted by Ipsos, online marketplace Temu is rapidly gaining favour among British shoppers — not just as a source of budget-friendly goods, but also as a platform driving creative and entrepreneurial activity.
Now in its second year in the UK market, Temu is earning high marks with local consumers. The Ipsos survey, commissioned by Temu, found that more than 80% of UK users believe the platform offers good value for money. On average, surveyed users estimate they saved 25% on purchases in 2024 alone, compared to other retailers.
Encouragingly for retailers watching Temu’s growth trajectory, 40% of respondents say they expect to spend more on the platform in 2025. Over 70% of respondents also say they would recommend the platform to others — a significant figure in a market where brand loyalty is hard-won and easily lost.
Beyond bargains: a platform for ideas and income
While low prices remain key to Temu’s appeal, the survey also uncovered other reasons shoppers keep returning. A third of users say the platform inspired them to decorate their home or workspace — often for a fraction of what it would have cost locally.
“They have been able to offer fantastic prices on the items that would have cost a lot more within the UK,” said one survey respondent. “I paid a fraction of the price on Temu, and it’s given me the freedom to do more.”
Significantly, the platform is also emerging as a launchpad for small-scale entrepreneurship. 14% of respondents said they had used Temu to help start or grow a business — whether by reselling goods, sourcing supplies, or testing out retail ideas at low cost.
A new digital retail dynamic
“Online marketplaces like Temu are levelling the playing field,” said Gregor Murray, VP Strategy at Digital Commerce Global. “They’re not just about selling — they’re enabling entrepreneurship, economic access, and competition. That’s a fundamental shift in the retail dynamic.”
He added, “In today’s economic climate, platforms like Temu are increasingly acting as launchpads for small business growth. And that’s a very positive thing for retail — both online and on the high street.”
Launched in September 2022, Temu connects consumers with manufacturers, sellers, and brands in more than 90 global markets. It was recently named a top Apple-recommended app and is one of the world’s most visited e-commerce destinations.
In the UK, Temu has begun onboarding local sellers to support faster delivery times, expand product variety, and contribute to domestic retail growth. The company says it expects 50% of UK sales to come from local sources by the end of 2025.
“We’re thankful that so many people across the UK are turning to Temu for their everyday needs,” said a Temu spokesperson. “It’s encouraging to see shoppers not only saving money but also using the platform to support small businesses or start ventures of their own.”
