UK retail sales fell by 0.3% in October compared to September, according to data published by the Office for National Statistics on Friday (17). The result disappointed analysts consulted by FactSet, who expected a 0.3% increase in sales for the period.
Compared to the same month last year, British retail sales contracted by 2.7% in October.
Sales volumes decreased by 1.1% in the quarter ending October 2023 compared to the previous three months.
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Motor fuel sales fell by 2.0% during the month and 0.7% in the October quarterly reading, a movement attributed to higher prices in this period.
Food store sales volume decreased by 0.3% in October, after remaining stable (0.0%) in September. Non-food store sales volumes fell 0.2% in October, after a 2.1% decline in the previous month.
For British retailers, higher costs of living, lower footfall and wet weather in the second half of the month contributed to the decline.
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Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.