August saw a significant increase in supermarket sales, driven by improved weather conditions.
- Food store sales volumes rose by 1.8% in August, an increase from July’s 0.3% growth.
- ONS data indicates a 0.6% year-on-year rise in food store sales, the highest increase since July 2021.
- Online sales for food stores increased by 1.4%, though overall online spending remained flat.
- Retail sales volumes reached their highest levels since July 2022, with a 1% increase in August.
In August, supermarkets across the United Kingdom experienced a notable boost in sales, attributed to the warmer weather. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a 1.8% increase in food store sales volumes, building upon a 0.3% rise observed in July. This trend reflects a broader year-on-year sales increase of 0.6%, marking the most significant annual growth since July 2021.
Retailers have pointed out that the favourable weather conditions have contributed to this upswing in consumer spending. There was a noticeable inclination towards hosting social gatherings, such as picnics and barbecues, which further stimulated sales not only in food but also in cosmetics and fashion sectors.
Despite an overall steady state in online spending, food store online sales saw a 1.4% rise compared to the previous year. In general, retail sales volumes increased by 1% in August, showing an improvement from the 0.7% growth noted in July. These figures represent the highest level of retail sales since July 2022.
Kris Hamer, Director of Insight at the British Retail Consortium, explained that although summer sales showed positive momentum, economic challenges such as high living costs and impending energy bills could potentially affect consumer demand in the near future. Additionally, the retail sector faces a disproportionate tax burden, which impedes investment and contributes to a decline in retail spaces and employment opportunities.
August’s positive sales figures highlight the impact of favourable weather on consumer spending, although potential economic challenges lie ahead.
