UK total retail sales decreased by -4.0% YoY in April (against a growth of +5.1% in April 2023), according to BRC-KPMG.
Non-food sales saw a YoY decline, with online non-food sales falling by -5.5% YoY. The online penetration rate of non-food items increased to 36.2%.
Helen Dickinson OBE, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), says: “Dismal weather and disappointing sales led to a depressing start to spring for retailers, even accounting for the change in timing of Easter.
"People delayed typical spring purchases despite retailers’ attempts to entice customers with heavy discounts. A dull, wet April dampened sales growth for clothing and footwear, especially outdoor sportswear, as well as DIY and garden furniture.
"Many retailers are hoping for brighter sales over the summer months as social events ramp up, and consumer confidence could improve with a potential cut in interest rates."
