Bank Holidays and Sun Boost Retail Sales in May

Retail sales in the UK rose unexpectedly in May, beating expectations thanks to a combination of bank holidays and warm weather.

Official figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed that retail sales volumes grew by 0.3% in May, compared to a decline of 0.2% in April.

The ONS said that the increase was driven by a rise in sales of outdoor goods and summer clothing, as well as a return to growth for fuel sales.

The good weather also boosted sales at garden centres and DIY stores.

However, food sales fell by 0.5% from April, as supermarket prices continued to rise.

The ONS said that the surprise rise in retail sales was likely due to a combination of factors, including the extra bank holiday for the King's coronation, which boosted spending on hospitality and leisure, and the warm weather, which encouraged people to spend more on outdoor activities.

The ONS said that the increase in retail sales was "broad-based", with all major sectors showing growth.

However, the ONS warned that the outlook for retail sales remained uncertain, as the cost of living crisis is likely to weigh on consumer spending in the coming months.

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