Internet sales volumes in the UK declined -46% in July. Credit: justynafaliszek from Pixabay.

UK retail sales volumes in the year to July have dropped at the ‘fastest pace’ since April last year, according to the latest monthly Distributive Trades Survey by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

A total of 135 companies were included in the survey, 59 of which were retailers.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

The survey revealed that sales volume in the year to July fell to -25% from -9% in the previous month.

The trend is expected to continue at a faster rate of -32% next month.

The data also revealed that internet sales volumes declined to -46% in July after growing 26% last month. It is expected to fall further to -48% in August.

See Also:

In the distribution sector, wholesale volumes in the year to July fell to -9% from -15% the prior month.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The fall is expected to contract at -6% next month.

During the month, orders placed upon suppliers were -39%, compared to -10% in June.

CBI principal economist Martin Sartorius said: “Retail sales volumes fell for a third consecutive survey in July and at the fastest pace since April 2022. Firms remain cautious about the retail sector’s near-term outlook as they pare back on orders and brace themselves for another sales contraction in the year to August.

“Cost pressures, a tight labour market and rising interest rates, alongside uncertain demand conditions, make the current environment difficult to navigate for retailers. Now more than ever, business rates reform would go a long way to alleviate cost pressures in the retail sector, which burden them disproportionately compared to other businesses.”