Retail sales increased in November, helped by Black Friday and “increased spending in the run-up to Christmas each year”, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Sales by value increased 3.8% year on year and 1% month on month.
Sales by volume in November increased 0.1% year on year and 1.3% month on month.
Food store sales volumes increased by 0.8% in November, compared with a rise of 0.1% the previous month.
Non-food store sales volumes were also up 2.3% as a result of “earlier Black Friday Sales and wider discounting” across the sector.
Shopify managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa Deann Evans said the boost in retail sales suggests “consumer confidence is roaring back just in time”.
She added that the figures suggest consumers have “tactically used the past few months to save in preparation for spending during the holiday season”.
British Retail Consortium chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “Many retailers tried to give sales a needed boost in November by starting their Black Friday Sales even earlier this year. Cosmetics and toiletries had another strong month as consumers continued to splurge on smaller indulgences.
“Some categories that usually do well in the Black Friday month, such as household electrical appliances, household goods and furniture, saw weak growth.
“Retailers anticipate that consumers will be making a last-minute dash to their favourite stores in the final days leading up to Christmas. People in retail will be working tirelessly in stores, warehouses and delivery services to make sure we all find what we need, keeping shelves stocked and delivering goods.
“As stores and delivery services become increasingly busy this weekend, it is essential that we all play our part in creating a friendly and enjoyable environment for other customers and staff this Christmas, and we ask for patience, kindness and consideration.”
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