September saw a noticeable rise in UK retail sales, primarily driven by clothing and footwear purchases. British Retail Consortium and KPMG data reveals a 2% increase in total retail sales compared to the previous year, though slightly lower than September 2023’s growth.
- The 2% growth in retail sales in September exceeded the three-month average of 1.2% and the annual average growth of 1.1%.
- Non-food sales experienced a year-on-year decline of 0.3% over a three-month span, yet showed improvement for the month of September.
- Online non-food sales saw a significant increase of 3.4% in September, contrasting with the previous year’s average decline of 3.6%.
- Weather conditions and seasonal changes spurred a demand for new clothing, with a noted rush for school and work attire.
In September 2024, the UK retail sector observed a 2% increase in sales year-on-year, surpassing the three-month average growth rate of 1.2% and the 12-month average of 1.1%. While this marks a positive trend, it is slightly below the 2.7% growth recorded in September 2023.
Non-food sales experienced a modest decline of 0.3% over the three months leading up to September. However, September alone showed growth when compared year-on-year, indicating a potential rebound in this category.
The change was more pronounced in the online retail space, where non-food sales surged by 3.4% year-on-year. This is a stark improvement from the 3.6% decline seen in the previous year, highlighting the growing trend of online shopping.
The British Retail Consortium’s chief executive, Helen Dickinson, pointed out the seasonal shift as consumers updated their wardrobes with items like coats, boots, and knitwear. The beginning of the academic year also contributed to a last-minute increase in purchases of computers and clothes.
Linda Ellett from KPMG noted a rise in children’s clothing, footwear, and accessories sales due to the school year start. Additionally, adult clothing and footwear sales received a boost from people returning to work after their summer holidays. September’s cold and wet weather further accelerated the demand for warmer and waterproof garments.
The September retail sales were primarily driven by a rise in clothing and footwear purchases, influenced by seasonal changes and weather conditions.
