According to the latest retail sales data from BRC-KPMG, total UK retail sales increased by 3.7% YoY in May, against a growth of 1.0% in May 2025. Non-food sales increased by 3.5% – decreasing by 0.4% in-store, but increasing by 10.6% online. The online penetration rate increased to 38.0% in May from 36.0% in May 2025.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), says: “May’s heatwave drove a surge in outdoor and summer goods. Clothing and footwear returned to growth as shoppers snapped up summer essentials like sandals and sunglasses. There was also roaring trade in fans, lighter bedding, and outdoor toys, and food sales were lifted by bank holiday barbecues. As temperatures rose, many opted to shop online to avoid the heat, boosting online sales.”
Linda Ellett, UK head of consumer, retail and leisure, KPMG, adds: “The late spring heatwave brought record temperatures in May and also heated up retail sales growth.
“Clothing and footwear sales grew – some for the first time since the January sales. Hot days and nights increased fans and air con unit buying, while food and drink sales were up, as were garden related purchases.
“As we move into summer season, retailers and hospitality businesses will be hoping the good weather continues and that the World Cup boosts related spending. Getting new items into the suitcases of holidaymakers is also now key to the summer performance of many retailers.”
