Retail sales up 1.4 percent in May

UK retail sales rose 1.4 percent in May, with clothing making a big comeback after suffering declines in April, according to the latest figures released by the British Retail Consortium and KPMG in their monthly retail sales monitor.

After two months of flat sales, May saw a total growth of 1.4 percent, which the British Retail Consortium chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “While still not spectacular, it is in line with the 12-month average of 1.5 percent.

“Clothing made a big comeback this month after suffering declines in April. This appears to be due to consumers waiting for just the right moment before embarking on their pre-summer spending.”

Standout categories included children’s footwear and children’s clothing as parents bought items for the warmer weather and half term holidays.

Dickinson added: “However, with signs that the UK’s economy is slowing it’s unlikely that this is the beginning of a complete reversal of fortunes. The uncertain outlook means that customers will remain cautious with their spending, therefore, we expect sales figures to remain volatile for the time being.”

KPMG head of retail, David McCorquodale, said: “Overall, retail sales showed some improvement in the month, up 1.4 percent in total versus May last year. Despite rain dampening the May Day mood, fashion sales finally lifted following a tough three months of trading for retailers. The appearance of some spring sunshine encouraged consumers to hit the sales and take advantage of early summer promotions.

“With a summer of sport kicking off in June and festival season getting underway, retailers will be hoping that the feel good factor coupled with a dose of summer sunshine will keep the tills ringing over the summer months.”