Ben Birchall via PA MediaBritish retailers saw sales tick slightly higher last month after a boost from Euro 2024 football tournament and summer discounting, according to official figures.
High street retailers said sales of football shirts, electronics such as TVs and alcoholic drinks were all stronger amid England’s journey to the Euros final.
Total retail sales volumes, which measure the quantity bought, rose by 0.5% in July, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.
It was, however, slightly below predictions, with a consensus of economists forecasting a 0.7% increase for the month.
It followed a 0.9% slump in volumes in June, which was revised from a previous estimate of a 1.2% decline, as retail firms blamed uncertainty ahead of the General Election and poor weather conditions.
ONS director of economic statistics, Liz McKeown, said: “Retail sales grew in July led by increases in department stores and sports equipment shops, with both the Euros and discounting across many stores boosting sales.
“These increases were offset by a poor month for clothing and furniture shops, and falling fuel sales, despite prices at the pump falling.”
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