Food Sales Remain Strong Throughout June

Like-for-like food sales for April to June fell 0.7%, which was deemed a success, as sales were boosted last year by the Diamond Jubilee.

Helen Dickinson, director general of the BRC, said, “In food, growth continues to be broadly in line with inflation, which is a good result considering that this period last year saw Jubilee celebrations across the country with an accompanying high demand for suitable party food products. With spirits and temperatures lifted following the weekend and further feel-good news expected later in the month, retailers will be hoping that July builds on this encouraging trend.”

Joanne Denney-Finch, chief executive of IGD, added, “Given the run-up to the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations last year, food and drink sales at the start of June were always going to have challenging comparatives.

“But sales bounced back in the second week, remaining positive for the rest of the month. And taken as a whole, food and drink sales for June were broadly in line with inflation.”

David McCorquodale, head of retail for KPMG, said, “This is another respectable performance by UK retailers. Sales are moving in the right direction, albeit hard-earned and promotion driven. The statistics are all the more creditable as last year’s sales included a Jubilee boost.

“Retailers will hope that the arrival of a royal baby will deliver a feel-good lift to sales this month, as consumers stock up on champagne and commemorative items. While this temporary uplift won’t transform the fortunes of the UK retail sector, a mini-memorabilia bonanza would still raise some much needed cash for retailers’ coffers, putting them on a stronger footing as they restock stores with autumnal ranges.”