Warmest June on record a sizzling boost for UK retail

RETAIL sales rose during the warmest June on record last month, with the hot weather driving trade of food and drink. Figures rose by 0.9%, following a 2.8% fall in May, as consumers returned to the high street.

- By Maisie Grice

RETAIL sales rose during the warmest June on record last month, with the hot weather driving trade of food and drink.

The warm weather had “a positive effect” on food stores’ sales volume, which recorded a 0.7% increase, following a 5.4% decrease in the previous month.

Rises were largely down to a sizzling performance in supermarkets, with retailers commenting on an increase in drinks purchases.

The Office for National Statistics figures revealed nonfood store volumes rose by just 0.2%.