Consumer confidence on the rise

Shoppers are returning to the high street as Britain's improving economy and the summer

of sporting success have sent consumer confidence to its highest level for three years.

A new report today claims the number of shoppers who agree the economic situation in the country has improved has more than doubled to 21 percent in the past three months.

At the same time, only 28 percent believe the economy will get worse, compared with 40 percent. If current trends continue, a greater proportion of consumers will be optimistic than pessimistic about the recovery in the run-up to Christmas.

The Christmas trading period is vital to brands securing sales as it is the time of year when stores are most profitable.