September saw retail sales continue to increase as the rush for seasonal clothing began in ernest.
As the record-breaking summer finally draws to a close, consumers headed to the shops to stock up on coats, winter woolies and footwear. The back-to-school campaigns also contributed to sales.
According to the regular monthly figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC), retail sales in September rose by 2.6 per cent on a like-for-like basis, and grew by 5.5 per cent overall. 'The figures for September will give retailers some reason to be cautiously optimistic in the crucial run-up to Christmas,' said director general Bill Moyes.
'In our view, the Bank of England's decision not to change the base rate (of interest) was the right one,' he said.
Food and drink sales were steadier as the weather returned to its seasonal norm, although fresh and convenience products experienced consistently good sales growth.
Flat-screen televisions sold well, as did DVDs. Sales of both VCRs and the VHS format continued to decline. Although music sales dipped, the release of Dido's new album, 'Life for Rent', kept sales buoyant.
David Beckham is credited with almost single-handedly giving books a good month, because his autobiography sold extremely well. Department stores had a good month overall, as did DIY and gardening retailers.
'As the stores bring in their Christmas ranges there is a buzz in the high street and plenty of signs that this could be a good Christmas for retailers,' said KPMG head of retail Amanda Aldridge.
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