UK May retail sales rose 1.2% in May 2026, beating the 0.5% monthly increase expected.
The Office for National Statistics said sales volumes rebounded after a 1.0% fall in April. That April drop was revised from a 1.3% decline. Meanwhile, March sales rose 0.7%, which was revised up from 0.6%.
The agency also said retail sales volumes increased 0.4% in the three months to May 2026 from the three months to February 2026.
UK May Retail Sales Beat Forecast
The ONS said non-food stores helped drive the monthly gain. Department stores performed well in May because of good weather. In addition, computer and telecoms retailers kept growing after product releases in March 2026.
Non-store retailers also posted gains after strong March and May periods. Retailers told the ONS that promotions and hot weather lifted sales volumes for non-store retailers and department stores.
The May increase followed a weaker April reading. However, the revised figures showed a smaller fall than first reported. The March revision also pointed to a slightly stronger start to the spring period.
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