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Retail sales in the UK increased on a like-for-like basis by 6.1% in September from the same period last year, according to BRC-KPMG’s retail sales monitor.
Non-food retail sales increased by 5.2% on a like-for-like basis by 5.2% and 3.2% on a total basis.
On a total basis, sales rose by 5.6% in September, against a decline of 0.6% in September 2019.
Paul Martin, KPMG UK head of retail, said: ‘‘The resilience of British retailers has been nothing shy of remarkable in recent months, with 6.1% like-for-like growth in September serving to reinforce that. That said, this month’s uptick is against the woeful performance recorded in September 2019 and so caution remains vital.
‘‘Last year, the prospect of a no-deal Brexit loomed over purchasing decisions dampening demand, but now that same prospect is accompanied by the recent resurgence of COVID-19 numbers. Combined, these factors could have a significant impact on retail growth over the next months.’’
He added: ‘‘Looking at the performance of specific retail categories, it’s clear that ‘Back to School’ activity gave fashion and footwear retailers a much-needed boost from lacklustre performance.
‘‘Elsewhere though the focus remains on home-related items, including household appliances, furniture and technology. Online sales have eased slightly, but it’s clear that the convenience of the channel is so well engrained into the consumer’s psyche now and is therefore here to stay.’’
