The UK retail sector has recorded its worst performance in three years, with sales plunging as cash-strapped consumers slash spending on non-essential items. According to the latest figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC), like-for-like retail sales dropped by 1.2% in April compared to the same period last year.
Essential Spending Under Pressure
Even food sales – typically resilient during economic downturns – fell for the first time since September 2020, declining by 4.0% on a like-for-like basis. This marks a dramatic reversal from the 5.2% growth seen in April 2023.
Weather Woes Compound Economic Challenges
The wettest April on record further dampened consumer activity, particularly affecting clothing, footwear and DIY products. "Many retailers are having to compete for shrinking consumer spend," noted BRC Chief Executive Helen Dickinson.
Sector-Wide Struggles
The figures reveal:
- Non-food sales down 2.0% in-store and 4.1% online
- Furniture and homeware among hardest hit categories
- Electricals also seeing significant declines
Sarah Bradbury, CEO of IGD, warned: "The outlook remains challenging with shoppers continuing to adapt their behaviour to stretch budgets."
