The British Retail Corporation (BRC) and KPMG have released figures showing that UK sales have risen 2.6% on a like-for-like basis in comparison to the same period as last year. On a total basis, sales rose 3.9%.
Figures also show that food sales rose 0.2% in the three months to September due to the Rugby World Cup.
BRC director general, Helen Dickinson, said: “Food had, in real terms, its highest twelve month average sales since February of 2011, which is particularly positive news following a prolonged period of decline. Retailers are seeing some improved consumer demand but they continue to operate in a very competitive environment. They are looking to Government to lighten the excessive tax burden they face.”
Other sectors that had a successful September include furniture and footwear.
Head of retail at KPMG, David McCorquodale, said: “Fashion sales were given a particular boost in September with more autumnal weather encouraging shoppers to check out the new season ranges and last minute back-to-school purchases lifting sales of children’s clothes and shoes."
As well as success on the high street, online sales also saw an increase with non-food items increasing 14.2%.
