Retail sales heated up in June, with both food and non-food performing well.
According to the latest BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor, UK Total retail sales increased by 3.1% year on year in June, against a decline of 0.2% in June 2024.
Food sales increased by 4.1% year on year in June, against a growth of 1.8% in June 2024. Non-Food sales increased by 2.2% year on year in June, against a decline of 1.9% in June 2024.
In-Store Non-Food sales increased by 2.2% year on year in June, against a decline of 2.6% in June 2024. Online Non-Food sales increased by 2.3% year on year in June, against a decline of 0.7% in June 2024.
The online penetration rate (the proportion of Non-Food items bought online) of 36.6% in June was unchanged compared to June 2024. This was below the 12-month average of 36.8%.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “The soaring temperatures increased sales of electric fans while sports and leisure equipment was boosted by both the weather and the start of Wimbledon. Food sales remained strong, though this was in-part driven by food inflation, which has risen steadily over the course of the year.
“The outlook is not all bright and sunny: retailers are watching Government closely for details of the upcoming business rates reform. If the Government includes shops within its new higher rates threshold, then many retailers will be forced to rethink their investment plans.
“The closure of larger stores would harm the local communities they support, costing jobs and reducing footfall in the area they serve. If Government wants to improve high streets and help local communities, they must ensure that no shop pays more under their new rates reforms.”
