Retail sales volumes in the UK declined unexpectedly in November, falling by 0.1% on a monthly basis, data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on Friday showed. The outcome contrasted with market expectations for a 0.3% increase and followed an upwardly revised 0.9% decline recorded in October.
According to the ONS, the overall fall was largely driven by a drop in non-store retail sales, as demand for gold weakened. Online jewelers reported lower sales volumes after prices of precious metals stabilized, leading to reduced consumer demand. Supermarket sales volumes also declined for the fourth consecutive month, with retailers citing low customer footfall.
The ONS noted that the decline in supermarket and non-store sales was partially offset by growth in non-food stores, where sales volumes increased by 1.0%. This category includes department stores, clothing retailers, household goods outlets and other non-food retailers.
Department stores recorded an increase in sales volumes, which some retailers attributed to extended Black Friday discount periods ahead of the holiday season. Retailers selling footwear and leather goods also reported stronger performance during the month.
Meanwhile, sales of automotive fuel recovered in November following a decline in the previous month, returning to levels slightly above those seen in September 2025.
On an annual basis, UK retail sales volumes rose by 0.6% in November, significantly below market expectations of a 1.6% increase. In the three months to November, sales volumes increased by 0.6% compared with the previous three-month period and were up 0.7% year-on-year, according to the ONS.
Source: Newstimehub
