Home » UK Business News » July’s soggy weather dampens retail sales in the UK

July’s soggy weather dampens retail sales in the UK

By Nithya Bose in UK Business News, posted August 19, 2023

Retail sales suffered a bigger-than-expected drop last month due to the terrible weather in the UK, the second decline this year.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), sales volumes slipped by 1.2 percent in July, following a 0.6 percent increase the previous month.

The soggy conditions led to a 2.6 percent drop in food store sales, with supermarkets reporting reduced clothing sales and the impact of rising living costs on food sales.

Non-food store purchases also suffered, plunging by 1.7 percent compared to June's 0.6 percent rise due to poor weather affecting foot traffic.

The constant downpour prompted a surge in online shopping, accounting for 27.4 percent of total retail sales – the highest proportion since February 2022.

British Retail Consortium chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “July’s poor weather dampened retail sales, with spend stalling in areas such as clothing and footwear and household goods.

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“Weakening consumer confidence also impacted purchases of big ticket items as customers continued to spend more cautiously, especially for computing and furniture. Meanwhile, sales for books and stationery performed better.

“Retailers are hopeful that the coming months will provide a boost to spending, as England fans celebrate the Women’s Football World Cup Final this weekend, families start their back-to-school shopping and university students ready themselves for the new academic year.

“Nonetheless, the economic backdrop will remain difficult, and Government must find ways to create an environment that fosters economic growth.”

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