By Daniel Hunter
As the mood of the nation continues to life, there was further good news today (Thursday) as official data showed that UK retail sales rose by 0.2% in June.
The Office for National Statistics said the figure meant sales were up 2.2% from a year earlier, boosted by department store discounts.
June's modest rise compares with strong growth in May, when sales jumped 2.1%. However, with another increase comes renewed confidence as the economy continues to grow.
Sales in June at non-specialist stores, including department stores, grew at their strongest rate since March 2012, jumping 3% on the month, helped by clearance sales and promotions.
“The sun is certainly shining on the UK high street. Retailers have reacted well to the warm weather by discounting products and offering good value to their customers as the retail recovery gains momentum," Peter Saville, partner at Zolfo Cooper, said.
"However, the latest string of retail insolvencies reminds us not to become complacent. A few months of positive indicators will not be enough to undo the past five years of weak consumer and business confidence. Retailers need to make sure they capitalise on this warm weather so that they can thrive well beyond the current heat wave.”
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