Retail sales have climbed by more than expected as bank holidays and a heatwave provided the high street with a temporary bump.
Latest official figures from the Office for National Statistics showed sales volumes rose 1.2% in May, compared with a 1% drop in April. The latest figure was significantly higher than the 1.5% increase predicted by economists. Sales were up 3.2% when measured over a 12-month period.
Volumes across non-food retailers increased 1.2% in May, with particularly strong growth registered at department stores, which were up 2.7%, as shoppers picked up fans, outdoor furniture and paddling pools during the hot weather.
Food sales also benefited from the third warmest May on record, thanks to outdoor gatherings and barbecues.
“May’s warm weather provided a welcome boost to retail sales,” British Retail Consortium economist Harvir Dhillon said. But he added: “While the sunshine provided a short-term boost, retailers continue to face significant challenges.”
Oliver Vernon-Harcourt, head of retail at Deloitte UK, said: “The combination of two bank holidays and a heatwave led to sales growth in May across most retail categories following a fall in April. Despite geopolitical unpredictability, one of the warmest Mays on record encouraged consumers to come out and spend on new outdoor items and clothing for their summer wardrobes.
“These results will be a relief to retailers and with consumer confidence unchanged in June after being better than expected in May, brighter times may lie ahead.”
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