Early Easter boosts UK retail sales in March, with total sales up 3.5% and food sales up 6.8%.

Early Easter boosts UK retail sales in March, with total sales up 3.5% compared to last March. Food sales experienced a significant increase of 6.8%, driven by Easter's early arrival and the subsequent uplift before the long weekend. Sales of cookware, tableware, and home textiles also increased as people prepared for Easter celebrations. However, online sales declined by 1.4% despite strong performances in home accessories, health and beauty products, and homewares.