UK retail sales volumes increased 1.0% month-on-month in June 2026, defying market expectations of a 0.3% decline, though easing from a 1.2% increase in the previous month.
Growth was driven by stronger non-store retail sales, as retailers reported that sales promotions and robust demand for sports merchandise, clothing, outdoor products, fans, and air conditioning equipment boosted activity.
Clothing store sales rose 1.9%, marking their largest monthly increase since September 2025, supported by promotional discounts and warm weather.
Meanwhile, other non-food stores also recorded solid performance, with art galleries posting strong sales and retailers broadly citing increased demand for seasonal goods due to the favorable weather.
On an annual basis, retail sales rose 4.2%, surpassing market expectations of a 2.3% increase and accelerating from a 3.5% gain in May.