Buoyed by brighter weather and the bank holiday, shoppers looking to update their wardrobes ahead of summer helped revive sales in May, following two months of stagnation.
Latest figures from the British Retail Consortium-KPMG survey, showed that total retail spending increased by 1.4% compared to a year ago, while like-for-like sales rose by 0.5% last month.
A strong performance from fashion chains, garden centres, DIY stores and pubs and restaurants drove sales as shoppers took full advantage of the sunnier weather.
The up-turn follows two flat months for March and April, with clothing retailers driving high street sales on the back of brighter weather.
Sales in children’s clothing and footwear were the standout fashion categories, coinciding with the half-term school break.
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: "Clothing made a big comeback this month after suffering declines in April. This appears to be due to consumers waiting for just the right moment before embarking on their pre-summer spending.
"However, with signs that the UK's economy is slowing, it's unlikely that this is the beginning of a complete reversal of fortunes.
"The uncertain outlook means that customers will remain cautious with their spending, therefore we expect sales figures to remain volatile for the time being."
David McCorquodale, UK head of retail at accountants KPMG, added: "With a summer of sport kicking off in June and festival season getting under way, retailers will be hoping that the feel good factor coupled with a dose of summer sunshine will keep the tills ringing over the summer months."
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