Retailers score ‘early summer goal’ in June as sales rise 1%

Retail sales volumes are estimated to have risen by 1.0% in June 2026, according to the latest ONS data released this morning.

This followed a rise of 1.2% in May 2026,  and a fall of 0.7% in April 2026 (revised up from a 1.0% fall in previous ONS bulletin). Retailers suggested that sales promotions and the warm weather increased sales volumes for non-store and clothing retailers.

Samuel Edwards, Head of Client Portfolio Management at global financial services firm Ebury, said: “Retailers scored an early summer goal in June, with retail sales outperforming expectations as warm weather, promotions and World Cup fever helped unlock consumer spending. The result offers retailers a much-needed boost as they enter one of the most important trading periods of the year.

The headwinds facing retailers however show little sign of easing. July's energy price cap rise, higher-for-longer interest rates and ongoing political uncertainty under the new Burnham government are all weighing on consumer confidence, while businesses continue to grapple with rising employment costs. Renewed tensions in the Middle East also risk pushing up energy prices, fuelling inflation and further eroding both consumer sentiment and retailer margins.

As the summer holiday period kicks off, retailers should focus on minimising inefficiencies, protecting themselves against currency volatility and ensuring they have access to flexible finance. Building resilience now will be crucial to weathering the challenges that lie ahead.