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17/06/2004
Warm weather boosts retail sales growth: ONS
Growth in retail sales continues to be robust, partly as a result of warmer weather, according to figures released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
On a seasonally adjusted basis, the volume of retail sales in the three months March to May was 1.7 % higher than in the previous three months with increases occurring in all retail sectors. This compares to 1.6 per cent in the three months to April and 2% in the three months to March. The headline growth rate has now remained between 1.5% and 2% since October last year.
On a year on year basis, the seasonally adjusted total sales volume in May 2004 was 7.4% higher than in May 2003 - the highest annual growth since April 2002. This was mainly driven by non-food retailers and in particular sales in clothing and footwear stores grew by 12.7% over the past 12 months, the ONS said.
Warmer weather meant that clothing retailers reported increases in sales of women's wear and men's wear while garden centres and DIY stores reported strong sales of garden furniture and plants. Sports shops also reported increased sales of sports wear due to higher activity in outdoor pursuits.
The unadjusted value of retail sales totalled £18.5 billion during May with average weekly sales totalling £4.6 billion or 7.1% (about £300 million) higher than the same month in 2003.
At 15.7%, the annual growth in sales volumes for the non-store retail and repair sector was the highest since records for this sector began in 1986. Increased sales by mail order and internet companies were the main cause, according to the ONS.
(gmcg)
On a seasonally adjusted basis, the volume of retail sales in the three months March to May was 1.7 % higher than in the previous three months with increases occurring in all retail sectors. This compares to 1.6 per cent in the three months to April and 2% in the three months to March. The headline growth rate has now remained between 1.5% and 2% since October last year.
On a year on year basis, the seasonally adjusted total sales volume in May 2004 was 7.4% higher than in May 2003 - the highest annual growth since April 2002. This was mainly driven by non-food retailers and in particular sales in clothing and footwear stores grew by 12.7% over the past 12 months, the ONS said.
Warmer weather meant that clothing retailers reported increases in sales of women's wear and men's wear while garden centres and DIY stores reported strong sales of garden furniture and plants. Sports shops also reported increased sales of sports wear due to higher activity in outdoor pursuits.
The unadjusted value of retail sales totalled £18.5 billion during May with average weekly sales totalling £4.6 billion or 7.1% (about £300 million) higher than the same month in 2003.
At 15.7%, the annual growth in sales volumes for the non-store retail and repair sector was the highest since records for this sector began in 1986. Increased sales by mail order and internet companies were the main cause, according to the ONS.
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
