UK retail sales volumes declined last month as warmer weather dragged on demand for autumn and winter clothing, according to official figures.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said retail sales volumes fell by 0.4% in September, compared with the previous month.
It was a steeper drop than expected, with economists having predicted a decline of 0.1% for the month.
It followed a 0.7% increase in August and a 0.4% fall in July.
Retail sales volumes rose by 0.7% in the three months to September 2026 compared with the previous three months.
Fuel sales rose following their poor previous quarter, whilst warm weather helped sales of food and beverages in the latest three months. pic.twitter.com/J0PqyzAM9o
— Office for National Statistics (ONS) (@ONS) October 23, 2026
These were both revised upwards in the latest figures, improving from a 0.5% estimated rise for August and a predicted 0.5% decline in July.
The ONS added that the volume of products bought from retailers was up 0.7% for the third quarter of 2026, compared with the previous three-month period.
ONS senior statistician Hannah Finselbach said: “Retail sales grew in the latest quarter with growth led by motor fuel which, despite recent price increases at the pump, have now returned to monthly sales levels last seen before the start of the conflict in the Middle East.
“Food and drink sales also contributed to growth in the quarter, partly helped by the warm weather and the World Cup, although they fell back slightly in September.”
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