UK retailers recorded a sharp rise in spending in June as hot weather prompted consumers to buy summer clothing and outdoor goods, despite growing pressure on budgets from the cost of living crisis.
The British Retail Consortium said sales increased by 4.9% in June, above the annual average growth rate, as shoppers hit the high street to buy swimwear, beach towels, outdoor games, garden furniture and barbecue food.
"The sun was shining on retailers in June, with the warm weather bringing consumers back out to the high street," said KPMG UK Head of Retail Paul Martin. "Sales of suntan lotion, food and clothing were all given a boost as consumers made the most of the record June temperatures."
Helen Dickinson, the chief executive of the BRC, said: “Sun-seekers headed to their favourite retailers to buy swimwear and beach towels, and outdoor games, garden furniture and barbecue food were boosted as families came together to celebrate Father’s Day.
“People were much more cautious about big-ticket purchases like furniture and technology equipment.”
But she warned consumer confidence remains fragile.