RETAIL SALES IN GREAT BRITAIN RISE 1.2% IN MAY

The volume of retail sales in Great Britain increased by 1.2% in May compared with April, according to the Office for National Statistics. The increase exceeded analyst forecasts of 0.5% growth and represented the strongest monthly rate since January. The ONS attributed the rise partly to record hot weather during the month, which spurred demand for items including fans and paddling pools. The growth marked a recovery from a revised 1% month-on-month decline in April.

The ONS reported that non-store retailing, primarily online traders, experienced the most significant expansion with sales rising 6.1% compared with April, the largest monthly increase since February 2025. Department stores reported sales up 2.5% month-on-month, whilst household goods stores recorded a 3.2% increase. Computer and telecoms retailers continued to perform strongly following product launches in March. Supermarkets represented the only major sector to experience a notable decline, with volumes falling 0.4% month-on-month.

Merchant data from Shopify indicated that sales of desk and pedestal fans surged 750% in May compared with April, whilst pool loungers rose 500% and outdoor umbrellas increased 70%. Retailers identified a combination of the UK recording its hottest ever May day and promotional activity as drivers of sales growth, particularly for outdoor furniture and recreational equipment. Over the year to the end of May, sales volumes rose 3.2% compared with the same period in 2024.