Business · Economy · 2 hrs ago
UK retail sales growth slows as shoppers curb spending before Budget
UK retail sales rose 1.3% in September compared with a year earlier, slower than the 12-month average of 1.5%.
The figures from the British Retail Consortium and KPMG show shoppers were cautious before the Budget, amid expectations of higher household bills and taxes.
Food sales grew by 2.5%, while non-food sales were almost flat, rising 0.3%.
Health and beauty had its strongest month of the year so far, but clothing and footwear sales were weak as warm weather delayed demand for autumn and winter clothes.
Separate Barclays figures showed card spending rose 2% year on year, and 68% of people surveyed were concerned about the Budget’s effect on their household finances.
The figures suggest shoppers are choosing some purchases while putting off others, creating a challenge for retailers as the Black Friday period approaches.
The Budget is due on October 28, and retailers are watching for decisions that could affect prices, investment and jobs.
UK retail sales grew by 1.3% year on year in September, slowing from 2.3% growth a year earlier.
The British Retail Consortium and KPMG said households were cautious ahead of expected rises in bills and taxes.
Food sales rose 2.5%, while non-food sales increased just 0.3%.
Health and beauty had its strongest month of the year so far, while clothing and footwear had a weak month.
Barclays figures showed card spending rose 2% year on year, and 68% of those polled were concerned about the Budget’s impact on their household finances.
- Who
- UK retailers and shoppers.
- What
- Retail sales growth slowed to 1.3% year on year in September.
- When
- September 2026. The article was published on October 12, 2026.
- Where
- The UK.
- Why
- Households were cautious ahead of expected rises in household bills and taxes.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
UK retail sales increased by 1.3% year on year.
The article reported the September retail and card spending figures.
The Chancellor was due to deliver the Budget.
- Total UK retail sales
- Up 1.3% year on year in September
- Food sales
- Up 2.5%
- Non-food sales
- Up 0.3%
- Card spending
- Up 2% year on year in September
- Household finance concerns
- 68% of those polled were concerned about the Budget’s potential impact
What people are saying
With confidence fragile, this Budget is a critical test. Retailers will do everything they can to protect value for customers, but Government must play its part.
September’s retail sales figures point to an increasingly selective consumer.
The caution felt by consumers ahead of the Budget mirrors what we have also seen in our surveys of UK businesses.
Sources
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