In September, UK retail sales exceeded expectations amid high demand for new technology.
- Sales in technology and telecommunication surged by over a third, driven by new product launches.
- The Office for National Statistics reported a 0.3% rise in retail sales volumes, surpassing forecasts.
- Clothing and footwear sales increased as cooler weather prompted seasonal wardrobe updates.
- The British Retail Consortium noted growth was slower but maintained a positive outlook.
In a surprising development, UK retail sales defied forecasts in September, driven notably by a burgeoning demand for new technology. The sector experienced a remarkable uptick, particularly in technology and telecommunications, with sales increasing by over one-third. This surge can be attributed to fresh product introductions such as Apple’s iPhone 16, which played a crucial role in counterbalancing a 2.4% decline observed in supermarket sales.
According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics, retail sales volumes in the UK grew by 0.3% during the aforementioned period, defying expectations of a decline. This growth, though less robust than the 1% observed in August, demonstrated resilience as volumes reached their highest since July 2022. When compared to the previous year, sales experienced a significant 3.9% rise, marking the most substantial annual increase recorded since February 2022.
In addition to the tech-driven boost, non-food store sales volumes saw a notable increase of 2.5%, as consumers sought to refresh their wardrobes in response to the cooler autumn weather. This shift in consumer behaviour underscores the interconnectedness of environmental changes and retail trends.
Kris Hamer, Director of Insight at the British Retail Consortium, offered an industry perspective: “Autumn led people to upgrade their wardrobe, as well as the last minute student dash for new computers, as the new academic year began. Big ticket items, such as furniture and other household goods, continued to take a hit from some consumers, such as those saving for Christmas or preferring to spend on experiences.”
September’s retail performance highlights the dynamic relationship between consumer demand shifts and product innovation.
