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Total retail sales in the UK increased by 3.7% year on year in May, outperforming the 1.0% growth recorded during the same period last year.
The performance for the four weeks to 30 May 2026 sat above the 12-month average growth rate of 2.0%. A late spring heatwave and bank holiday weekend drove grocery purchases and summer clothing sales, reversing recent downturns across the high street.
Food sales increased by 3.9% year on year, while non-food sales rose by 3.5% compared with a decline of 1.1% in May 2025. Online non-food sales jumped by 10.6%, pushing the online penetration rate up to 38.0% as shoppers bypassed physical stores during hot weather.
In contrast, physical shops faced tougher trading conditions, with in-store non-food sales falling by 0.4% year on year. Industry analysts noted that retail growth may find further short-term momentum from the upcoming World Cup, though long-term geopolitical tensions and energy costs cloud the economic outlook.
Chief executive at the British Retail Consortium Helen Dickinson said: “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.
“While the sunshine gave retail a welcome lift, this momentum should not be taken for granted. Household finances remain under pressure, consumer confidence is still fragile, and many retailers continue to face rising costs. If Government wants to keep inflation in check and support growth, it must urgently tackle the taxes and levies that are driving up energy bills.”
UK head of consumer, retail and leisure at KPMG, Linda Ellett, added: “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.
“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.”
