Retail sales in Great Britain rebounded in May, with volumes rising 1.2% month-on-month, the strongest growth since January, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The increase, which exceeded analysts' expectations of 0.5%, was driven by record hot weather and a pre-World Cup boost.
The ONS reported that sales of fans and paddling pools surged as the UK experienced its hottest May day on record. Online retailers saw a 6.1% monthly rise, the largest since February 2025, while department stores reported a 2.5% increase. Household goods stores also performed well, with sales up 3.2%.
However, supermarkets saw a 0.4% decline in sales volumes. Overall, annual sales volumes rose 3.2% compared to the same period last year. Despite the positive figures, analysts cautioned that the rebound may be temporary, with consumer confidence remaining low amid ongoing economic concerns.
