Britons are finding ways to save money as spending in discount stores has shot up by 41 percent compared to last year. This is according to customer data from Nationwide Building Society, the UK’s largest building society.

Nationwide says that people are turning to bulk buy and discount retailers as the cost of essentials continues to rise.

In January, debt payments increased by seven percent compared to the same time last year, while supermarket spending rose by six percent.

Rent payments in January were 28 percent higher than a year ago, and mortgage spending went up by 11 percent.

Spending on non-essentials, such as holidays, leisure activities and charities, increased by two percent overall in January.

Mark Nalder, Nationwide’s payments strategy director, said: “Our data highlights how many households are being resourceful with their finances by spending smart.”

“But despite essential costs remaining high, there are potential green shoots of optimism, with non-essential costs up year-on-year demonstrating that many are able to balance what they need with what they want.”

“We would encourage anyone who is struggling financially to get in touch with their financial services provider to help them get back on track.”

The report was based on debit and credit card and direct debit transactions made by Nationwide customers.