Food sales increased by 6.8% year-on-year in March, above the 12-month average of 4.3% growth, however, the outlook remains “uncertain” according to the British Retail Consortium.
The early Easter weekend bolstered food sales in March, said the British Retail Consortium (BRC), with an increase of 6.8% year-on-year, against a growth of 1.6% in March 2025 and above the 12-month average of 4.3%.
UK total retail sales saw an increase of 3.6% year-on-year in March, up from 1.1% in March 2025 and against a 12-month average growth of 2.6%, with the BRC commenting that non-food performance was more uneven than food.
Chief executive of the BRC Helen Dickinson commented: “An early Easter provided a much-needed boost to food sales as families came together over the long weekend.”
“Government must act decisively and boldly now to curb inflation by delaying domestic policies that would push prices even higher for shoppers.”
She continued: “Retailers hope that the Middle East ceasefire will bring lasting stability, but the outlook remains uncertain. Damage to supply chains has already been done, and rising costs – from shipping and fertiliser to insurance and commodities – are piling yet more pressure onto already stretched retailers.
“Government must act decisively and boldly now to curb inflation by delaying domestic policies that would push prices even higher for shoppers.”
Sarah Bradbury, IGD CEO, stated: “The conflict in the Middle East is having an immediate impact on costs with petrol prices up by around 18% at the pump compared to before the conflict began. Expectations are that the conflict will continue to increase cost pressures, with rising risks to heating bills, food prices and interest rates. As a result, shopper confidence has dropped to the lowest level since 2023.
“While occasions such as Mother’s Day and Eid provided moments of celebration they were not enough to offset growing shopper concerns about rising costs. The months ahead will therefore be challenging for both shoppers and the food and drink industry.”
