Retail sales volumes across Great Britain saw an unexpected increase of 0.5% in August, according to new data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This rise reverses a 0.5% drop recorded in July.
The August figures surpassed economists' forecasts, who had anticipated a 0.2% fall for the month. This marks another piece of economic data exceeding expectations, following a recent jump in UK GDP.
Over the three months to August, retail sales volumes rose by 0.9%. ONS senior statistician Jon Gough noted that online outlets experienced a particularly strong June, contributing to overall sales growth. Food store sales also increased, with supermarkets performing well in July and August.
Retailers selling alcohol and beverages reported strong performance across all three months to August, attributing this to promotions, hot weather, and the World Cup.