Black Friday boost got the Budget blues

BLACK Friday discounts failed to significantly boost consumer spending in November, as Budget uncertainty kept shoppers away from the high street.

- By JOHN SMITH

Sales declined 0.1% last month, following a 0.9% fall in October, as households opted to hold off spending in the run-up to Christmas to wait and see the outcome of the Autumn Budget.

While November did experience a 0.6% uptick compared to the previous year, sales volumes were down by 3%, compared to levels recorded pre-Covid.

Total sales volume fell last month, with online jewellers reporting reduced demand upon the price of precious metals stabilising after reaching record highs earlier in the year. Supermarkets also saw sales tumble for the fourth consecutive month, with retailers reporting low footfall. However this was partly offset by a 1% rise in nonfood stores.