The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has highlighted that during the 1st-7th August period, shop price inflation increased to 0.9% on the year.
This was against growth of 0.7% in July, and above the three-month average of 0.6%. Food inflation increased to 4.2% year on year in August, against growth of 4% in July, and above the three-month average of 3.9%.
Fresh food inflation increased to 4.1% year on year in the period. This was against growth of 3.2% in July, and above the three-month average of 3.5%.
In August, ambient food inflation decreased to 4.2% year on year, against growth of 5.1% in July. This was below the three-month average of 4.5%.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC, stated: “Shop price inflation hit its highest rate since March last year, fuelled by food price rises. This adds pressure to families already grappling with the cost of living. Staples such as butter and eggs saw significant increases due to high demand, tightening supply, and increased labour costs.
“Chocolate also got more expensive as global prices of cocoa remain high owing to poor harvests. There was some respite for parents ahead of the new academic year, with lower prices for clothing, books, stationery, and computing.”
“As the Bank of England acknowledged, the £7 billion in new costs flowing through from last year’s Budget has created an uphill battle for retailers.”
Dickinson continued: “Retailers continue doing everything they can to limit price rises for households, but as the Bank of England acknowledged, the £7 billion in new costs flowing through from last year’s Budget has created an uphill battle for retailers. That is why over 60 retail CEOs recently wrote to the Chancellor with a call to ensure there are no further taxes rises [sic] on retail this Autumn.
“The planned business rates reforms present an opportunity to deliver a meaningful reduction in retail, hospitality and leisure bills, ensure no shop pays more as a result and help retailers keep prices low for customers.”
Mike Watkins, head of retailer and business insight, NIQ, said: “The uptick in prices reflects several factors: global supply costs, seasonal food inflation driven by weather conditions, the conclusion of promotional activity linked to recent sporting events, and a rise in underlying operational costs. As shoppers return from their summer holidays, many may need to reassess household budgets in response to rising household bills.”
