UK Total retail sales decreased by 0.2% year on year in June, against a growth of 4.9% in June 2023 according to figures released this morning by the British Retail Consortium.
Non-Food sales decreased 2.9% while Food sales increased 1.1% year on year over the three months to June
Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:
“Retail sales performed poorly in June as the cooler weather during the first half of the month dulled consumer spending. Sales of weather-sensitive categories such as clothing and footwear, as well as DIY and gardening were hit particularly hard, especially compared to the surge in spending during last June’s heatwave.
“Electronics sales had a better month as football fans cheering on their national teams upgraded their home entertainment systems and people replaced their pandemic purchases. Retailers remain hopeful that as the summer social season gets into full swing and the weather improves, sales will follow suit.”
“The retail industry is vital to the nation’s economy as an important source of employment and investment. The industry shapes local communities and provides three million jobs across the country. Through its scale and reach, retail can make a huge contribution to Labour’s policy goals, and the industry stands ready to work with the new Government to find ways to make this happen.”
