August UK retail like-for-likes jumped 1.8%, according to British Retail Consortium-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor. Retail Week takes a category-by-category look at the performance.

  • Food was the slowest-growing category last month after a record July and a very strong August 2012 when the Olympics helped propel sales. It was the slowest month on record for food growth, discounting Easter distortions. However, baking sales were boosted by the launch of the Great British Bake Off. Over the three months to the end of August sales were up 1.4%.
  • Clothing sales were boosted by Back to School and as such kidswear was the top performing segment. Overall though August, was a “transitional” month for clothing – it was weaker than July, when sales were driven by shoppers snapping up discounted items. Last month autumn ranges had only just come into stores and “suffered a lack of interest”. However, those retailers that still had summer products in stock saw “strong” demand for them, including basics and marked-down items. Overall footwear had a good month, beating clothing in terms of growth, with childrens’ and men’s performed well.
  • Furniture and flooring sales rebounded in August after a disappointing July, providing a positive sign that consumers feel confident enough to make large scale, non-essential investments in their homes. It was the best performing category last month and enjoyed its best performance since March 2010. Retailers saw growth across all ranges, including bedroom, living room and dining room.
  • Health and beauty was the second worst performing category in August. After a strong July, the appetite for sun creams and seasonal products had faded by August. The dry and sunny summer meant that there was less demand for cough and cold medicines this year compared to 2012’s poor summer.
  • Electricals saw renewed growth in August as Back to School and the university season generated interest for tablets and laptops, as well as small household appliances.

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