Breakfast briefing: Retail news on Carphone Warehouse and September's retail sales

September UK retail sales record weakest growth of the year so far

September UK retail sales were up 0.7% on a like-for-like basis against a 1.5% increase in the prior year, showing the weakest growth of the year so far.

The British Retail Consortium - KPMG Retail Sales Monitor shows that total sales increased 2.4% in September against a 3.4% increase last year.

Sales were driven by electricals and leisure goods but food was the hardest hit.

KPMG head of retail David McCorquodale said: “These figures are a reality check and will make retailers nervous as we enter the run up to Christmas. Unseasonably warm weather stifled sales of autumn and winter collections in September.”

Carphone Warehouse partners with Future’s technology brands for mobile phone upgrade tool

Carphone Warehouse is targeting customers in the early stages of considering upgrading their mobile phone through a new tool which helps them choose.

The retailer has launched a six-month, six-figure content partnership with Future’s technology brands, TechRadar, T3 and Gizmodo UK to create a ‘Smart Choice’ content hub, according to Mediaweek.

It has been created within TechRadar’s technology news and reviews website, offering customers information, reviews and news about new handsets to those considering an upgrade. Smart Choice also includes integrated video content in partnership with Carphone Warehouse video agency Adjust Your Set.

T3 and Gizmodo are also integrated into the partnership, with activity driving digital reach among Future’s valuable technology audience.

The partnership was created by Future and Carphone Warehouse’s media agency m/SIX.