Partner Article

High Street lift surprises retailers

RETAILERS in the North East enjoyed an unexpected hike in high street sales in July according to data released by the CBI.

A new national survey has found that while 18 per cent of retailers said that sales were lower than a year ago, 51 per cent said they rose, giving the highest balance since April 2007.

The sub-sectors with the strongest growth were grocers, clothing and footwear & leather.

Annual summer discounts, the World Cup and warm weather appear to have encouraged the hike in high-street sales.

Sarah Green, regional director, CBI North East, said: “High street sales have performed well this month, with growth better than retailers predicted.

“Annual summer discounts and warm weather helped lift sales of clothing, while grocers and durable household goods retailers appear to have benefitted from a World Cup boost to sales of food, drink and new televisions.”

“Retailers are optimistic that strong sales growth will continue next month.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .