UK retail sales declined 2.3% in April, with non-food sales down 4.1%, due to poor weather and consumer hesitancy.

UK retail sales declined by 2.3% in April, surpassing the 0.2% drop in March and the expected 0.6% decline. Poor weather, including storms and heavy rainfall, negatively impacted several sectors, leading to a reduction in shopping trips. Non-food shops saw a 4.1% decline in sales volumes, marking the steepest fall since January 2021. Consumer confidence is rising, but shoppers remain hesitant to spend, particularly on non-essential items.

May 23, 2024
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