Fashion sales remained flat throughout March despite a spike in footfall, according to the BDO.
High street fashion sales fell 0.8 per cent last month, and although this was better than the 3.4 per cent drop experienced in February and the 2.5 per cent drop in March 2016, it is still the fourth month in a row that sales have not grown.
However, the BDO said footfall went up by 5.2 per cent in March, thanks to warmer-than-usual weather for the month and a boost in shoppers visiting retail parks and shopping centres.
The sale of lifestyle and homeware products also increased 1.4 per cent and 1.8 per cent year-on-year respectively.
READ MORE: January sales worst for 4 years
However, while fashion sales at physical stores remained flat, online fashion sales were the real winner last month with an increase of 28.1 per cent.
“The new season should have triggered high-street spending, and retailers will be questioning why they have been unable to convert shoppers into buyers,” BDO head of retail Sophie Michael told The Times.
“As inflation is beginning to be felt against a backdrop of economic uncertainties, it is ever more important that retailers focus on product, quality and range.
“Retailers will have to go the extra mile to differentiate their products and stores.”
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