The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has released combined March and April total sales figures, reporting delayed sales for the season.
Total sales for March and April were combined by BRC to offset distortion from calendar changes, as Easter fell in March rather than April like the previous year.
UK total retail sales decreased by 4% year-on-year in April, against a growth of 5.1% in April 2023. This was below the three-month average growth of 0.5% and the 12-month average growth of 2.2%. When correcting for the distortion created by the earlier timing of Easter, the average growth for March and April together was 0.2%.
Food sales increased 4.4% year-on-year over the three months to April, against a growth of 9.8% in April 2023. This was below the 12-month average growth of 6.7%, and for the month of April, the Food category was in decline on the year.
Helen Dickinson OBE, chief executive of the BRC, said: “Dismal weather and disappointing sales led to a depressing start to Spring for retailers, even accounting for the change in timing of Easter. People delayed typical Spring purchases despite retailers’ attempts to entice customers with heavy discounts. Many retailers are hoping for brighter sales over the summer months as social events ramp up, and consumer confidence could improve with a potential cut in interest rates.
“A strong retail industry is vital for a strong economy, and it is vital the next Government recognises this if it wants to boost investment in our towns and cities. Retail is nearly 10% of employment in every region and plays a unique role in building communities and generating local economic growth. The Government must champion pro-growth policies to help unlock important investment in many left-behind regions.”
Sarah Bradbury, CEO of the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD), said: “With Easter falling in March this year, the UK grocery market was always going to face a tough set of annual comparisons in April. Sales and volumes have predictably both turned negative compared to the same period last year.
“But there is hope – with inflation continuing to exit the market, increased promotional activity among retailers, and two upcoming bank holidays in which sales and volumes will surely improve.
“As expected, confidence in the year ahead continues to grow steadily. Shopper confidence at a total level increased slightly in April as inflation continued to ease off slowly. However as National Price Hike Day and the 2p cut to national insurance have both come into effect, we continue to anticipate a divergent experience in recovery for shoppers.”
