Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirm that sales grew strongly in July, notes the British Retail Consortium (BRC) .

The total value of sales growth reported by the ONS (not seasonally adjusted) was 5.1% in July compared with 2.9% a year ago. In June, the growth rate was 3.9%.
BRC Director General Helen Dickinson said: “These are very strong sales figures, and they demonstrate just how well retailers have responded to the recent good weather.
“By giving customers what they want to enjoy the summer, and running the right promotions at the right time, they have driven good sales across the board.
“These results today add to the signs we’re seeing of a tentative recovery taking hold. Retailers still face significant challenges, but the outlook is gradually improving.”