Overview

• Official ONS data show total sales volumes up 0.5% on the month in August, with sales excluding fuel up 0.8%.
• July’s growth was revised down to 0.5% from 0.6%, highlighting the role of revisions in short‑term readings.
• The three‑month measure fell 0.1% versus the prior quarter, with weaker non‑food categories and lower automotive fuel sales weighing on the trend.
• Retailer feedback cited sunny weather, back‑to‑school spending and the late bank holiday, with clothing up 1.3%, specialist food stores recovering, and non‑store retailing higher.
• GfK reports softer consumer confidence, industry groups flag rising cost pressures, and retailers warn of potential tax increases ahead of the 26 November Budget as the golden quarter approaches.