Retail sales rebounded last month as sunny weather and the double bank holidays lured shoppers out to the high street.
The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show sales volumes rose by 2.9% in May, following a fall of 1.8% the month before.
Non-food stores sales rose 3.5% last month – marking the largest monthly rise since April 2021 – driven by improved footfall, better weather and the impact of promotions, retailers reported.
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The ONS reported strong growth across clothing and footwear retailers, furniture stores and sports and toy shops. Online spending also increased 5.4% in May.
The positive sales numbers comes after separate figures revealed consumer confidence is rising as inflation fell back to normal levels.
Accenture UK & Ireland retail strategy and consulting managing director Matt Jeffers said: “There are signs that this growth could continue. Big events this summer, including the Euros and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, should provide a further boost for sales as consumers prioritise spending on experiences and events.
“Retailers will have also been planning how to capitalise on these moments with new marketing and value propositions which, coupled with a more settled weather forecast, may help to boost sales in the months ahead.”
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