UK retail sales surpass pre-pandemic levels again

18 Sep 2020

The latest reports by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) have shown that retail sales in the UK are on the rise, with household goods spending and DIY supporting the increase. 

Retail sales volumes were up by 0.8% throughout July and August – 4% higher than that in February. 

The report claimed, “Retail sales continued to grow, further surpassing their pre-pandemic level.”

In addition, Jonathan Athow, deputy national statistician for economic statistics at the ONS said, "Sales of household goods thrived as the demand for home improvement continued and, despite a dip this month, online sales remained high.”

Homeware goods sales rose by 9.9% against February’s figures. In July, UK retail sales were up by 3.6%. 

Athow continued, “"Clothing stores continued to struggle with sales still well below their February level. Overall, the switch to greater online sales means the High Street remains under pressure.”

In-store retail sales remain to be 15.9% lower than pre-pandemic levels. 

Chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, Helen Dickinson stated, "The recovery remains a mixed bag, with high growth in online sales, while city centre shops suffered as a result of low footfall. With further lockdowns looming, the government must provide clarity on the impact it will have for shop”.

Dickinson added, "Retailers have invested hundreds of millions making stores safe and secure for customers during the pandemic; this includes perspex screens, social distancing measures and additional hygiene measures. As such, retail remains a safe space for consumers, even under local lockdowns."

The months prior to the festive season will be important for retails, PwC’s consumer markets leader Lisa Hooker suggested. 


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