LONDON, June 8 (Reuters) – British retailers reported a giant
increase in gross sales in Might, after lockdown measures ended the month
earlier than and a leisure of COVID restrictions on hospitality
drew extra buyers into city centres, business information confirmed on
Tuesday.
The British Retail Consortium mentioned whole gross sales amongst its
members, who embody supermarkets and high-street chains, have been
10.0% increased final month than in Might two years in the past.
This was the most important improve in gross sales in contrast with 2019
for any month for the reason that begin of the pandemic.
“The rain in Might didn’t dampen shopper demand and
buyers continued to return to the excessive road,” Paul Martin,
head of retail at survey sponsor KPMG, mentioned.
In contrast with Might 2020, when most non-food retailers have been
shut resulting from lockdown restrictions, whole gross sales have been 28.4%
increased.
Garments, footwear and furnishings noticed particularly robust good points in
gross sales, the BRC mentioned, benefiting from buyers having the ability to view
items in particular person since non-essential retailers have been allowed to
reopen in April after months of closure.
Relaxed restrictions on socialising additionally inspired buyers
to purchase new summer time garments.
Cost processor Barclaycard, which sees nearly half of
credit score and debit card transactions, mentioned shopper spending was
7.6% increased than in Might two years in the past.
Pubs and eating places have been in a position to serve prospects indoors
from Might 17, although solely at lowered capability.
Barclaycard mentioned spending at eating places final month was
nonetheless 54% under its stage two years in the past, whereas spending at pubs
and bars was 19% decrease. However this was an enchancment from April
when gross sales have been down 74% and 67% respectively.
International journey stays extremely restricted. Spending with
airways was 74% decrease than in Might 2019, little higher than
April.
(Reporting by David Milliken. Enhancing by Andrew MacAskill)
(([email protected]; +44 20 7542 5109; Reuters
Messaging: [email protected]))
Key phrases: BRITAIN ECONOMY/RETAIL
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