The Bookseller.com

2nd December 2008

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Unexpected rise in high street sales

20.06.08

Retail sales unexpectedly soared in May as sunny weather drove people to splash out on summer clothes and fresh food, recording the biggest jump in more than two decades, government figures showed today, reported in the Guardian.

Retail sales volumes increased 3.5% from the previous month, the biggest monthly rise since records began in January 1986, the Office for National Statistics said. The figures stunned economists who had expected a drop of 0.1%, and most said the strength in sales would not continue.

The ONS said it was also surprised when it saw the number and rang round retailers for anecdotal evidence, notes the Guardian. It found that people rushed out to buy summer dresses and sandals, barbecues, garden furniture, plants and fresh food during the first two weeks in May which were unusually hot. The government statisticians indicated that the surge in sales was likely to be a blip rather than a lasting turnaround on the high street.

Guardian

Retail high street