UK Retail Sales Growth Exceeds Expectations in June

UK retail sales grew by 2.7% year-on-year on a like-for-like basis in June 2025, a sharp acceleration from May’s 0.6% increase and well above market forecasts of just 0.2%.

Warmer weather and seasonal sporting events such as Wimbledon boosted foot traffic on the high street, driving strong demand for items like fans and sportswear.

Food sales rose sharply by 4.1%, largely fueled by ongoing price inflation, while non-food sales climbed 2.2% as consumers responded to summer deals.

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, noted: “Retail sales heated up in June, with both food and non-food performing well.” Linda Ellett, UK Head of Consumer, Retail and Leisure at KPMG, added: “Home appliances and homeware purchases contributed to the growth, as new homeowners and those refreshing their spaces took advantage of seasonal promotions both online and in-store.”