UK retail sales fell in June, says Office for National Statistics

Retail sales volumes fell by 1.2% in June, following a rise of 2.9% the previous month, according to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) retail sales data.

Over the second quarter from April to June, sales fell 0.1% compared with the first quarter from January to March.

The ONS data showed that non-food store sales volumes dropped 2.1% in June, following a 3.3% rise in May.

There were “strong downward contributions” from department stores, clothing, footwear and furniture stores as retailers suggested that the election, lower footfall and poor weather affected sales.

Food store sales fell by 1.1% in June compared to May, while the amount spent online fell 2.7% month on month. However, this was a 2.3% rise compared with June 2023.

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Accenture UK and Ireland retail strategy and consulting managing director Matt Jeffers said: “Retailers will be bitterly disappointed to see sales decline in June, particularly as many had hoped the array of cultural and sporting events taking place in the month would provide a welcome boost. Sales across department stores and clothing fared particularly poorly, a concern as we enter the important summer months.

“The sector will hope to buck this trend in July, with the prospect of the Euros and Wimbledon finals likely to drive stronger sales. While the Olympics may provide another boost in late summer, retailers should be thinking about how they can reignite sales momentum for the remainder of the year. 

Shopify managing director of Europe, Middle East and Africa Deann Evans added: “With better weather on the horizon, a strong summer of trading is still on the cards for retailers, especially if they cleverly engage with consumers. 

“Our data reveals more than four in five (82%) UK shoppers would become more loyal to brands if they were offered something such as high-quality goods or services, promotions and surprises.”