Deloitte comments on ONS retail sales figures

Commenting on today’s ONS retail sales figures, Oliver Vernon-Harcourt, head of retail at Deloitte, said:

“A second consecutive month of decline in retail sales will be a big disappointment for retailers, particularly with Black Friday and early Christmas shopping captured in these figures. It could be that some consumers opted to delay spending decisions until after the Budget, but the rise in volumes across department stores, clothing and footwear, and household goods suggests that the start of the discounting period could have enticed consumers into purchases at the end of the month. Meanwhile, supermarket sales declining for a fourth consecutive month is a sign of the times, with food inflation still having a significant impact on consumer budgets and purchasing decisions.

“A successful December, to round off a subdued Golden Quarter, will be at the top of retailers’ wish lists. The bigger picture of retail in 2025 showed a prolonged pressure from weak consumer confidence and challenging economic conditions. With interest rates and inflation continuing to fall, retailers will hope this can spur a rebound in consumer spending. On the other hand, if economic uncertainty continues, the apprehension among both consumers and retailers may continue in 2026.”

ENDS