An early Easter boosted food spending in Britain last month, lifting retail sales by the most since August, according to the British Retail Consortium.
Total retail sales increased by 3.5% year on year in March, against a growth of 5.1% in March 2023.increased 6.8% year on year over the three months to March but Non-Food sales decreased 1.9% year on year over the three-months
Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:
“While retail sales growth improved last month, this was largely driven by Easter falling unusually early and the subsequent uplift to food sales in the week preceding the long weekend. Easter also boosted sales of non-food products such as cookware and tableware, as people readied themselves to host family and friends. Home textiles such as throws and pillows were also popular as consumers sought to spruce up their homes ahead of Spring. Elsewhere, wet weather dampened sales of garden furniture, BBQs, DIY products, and clothing and footwear.
“After a difficult start to the year, retailers are hopeful that with warmer weather around the corner, consumer confidence will spring back up. A strong retail industry can boost investment across our towns and cities, and as we gear up for a general election, it is essential the next government recognises this and rethinks the burdensome costs imposed on retailers. With a pro-growth policy landscape, retailers can step up their investment in innovation and in local jobs and communities up and down the country.”
