The UK economy grew by 0.9% in November. Growth, which allowed to recover all the losses from the pandemic and gave hope for a further recovery this year.

However, these numbers are from a period before Omicron led to new work-from-home orders and broader consumer caution.

City economists expect GDP to fall at least a little in December, while inflation and declining living costs could make January and February sluggish.

Companies say labor shortages and sickness are having a devastating impact.