Pre-Budget fears hit Black Friday sales last month, figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and KPMG have found.
Total UK retail revenues were up 1.4% year on year over the four weeks from 2 November to 29 November, compared to a 3.3% drop the same time last year, according to the latest BRC-KPMG retail sales monitor.
The figure marked the weakest growth in six months, despite increased inflation.
Food sales grew 3% year on year over the period, compared to a 2.2% rise the year before.
Non-food revenues nudged up 0.1% year on year, against a 7.9% last year, while online non-food sales climbed 0.5% year on year, compared to a 10.3% drop during November 2024.
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BRC CEO Helen Dickinson said: “Pre-Budget jitters among shoppers meant the month of Black Friday did not deliver as strongly as retailers had hoped or the economy needed.
“Sales growth was the weakest in six months, despite the elevated inflation.
“Not unexpectedly, online dominated, with the proportion of non-food bought online reaching its highest level since 2022.
“Many consumers took advantage of promotions, with homeware and upholstery selling well ahead of festive hosting. Fashion lagged, especially with the mild first half of November dampening demand for winterwear.”
The trade association boss continued: “Retailers continue to invest in Christmas offerings, building up stock levels, and promoting festive products.
“It has been a difficult year as retailers grappled with ever-rising cost pressures.
“Looking ahead to 2026, it is time public policy started prioritising measures to revive consumer confidence and keep costs of doing business down so retailers can focus on growth strategies to maximise their contribution to economic recovery.”
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