ONS: Retail Sales Boosted By Black Friday Deals

The ONS has published retail sales data for November, covering the period 29 October to 25 November 2023.

• Retail sales volumes are estimated to have increased by 1.3% in November 2023, from no growth (revised from a fall of 0.3%) in October 2023.

• Looking broader, sales volumes fell by 0.8% in the three months to November 2023 when compared with the previous three months.

• Non-food store sales volumes rose by 2.3% in November 2023, following a 0.2% increase in October 2023; retailers suggested that earlier Black Friday sales and wider discounting contributed to the increase.

• Within non-food, all sub-sectors reported increases in sales volumes over the month. Household goods store sales volumes rose by 3.5% in November 2023 following a fall of 2.6% in October 2023. The increase over the month was mainly because of strong growth in furniture and lighting stores as retailers reported discounts during November 2023.

• Food store sales volumes rose by 0.8% in November 2023, from an increase of 0.1% in October 2023.

• Automotive fuel sales volumes rose by 0.6% in November 2023 as fuel prices fell.

• Non-store retailing (predominantly online retailers) sales volumes rose by 0.2% in November 2023, following a rise of 0.5% in October 2023.

• Online spending values rose by 1.5% from October to November 2023, mainly because of a strong increase in the sub-sector other non-food stores.

• As the monthly increase in the value of online retail was slightly larger than the monthly increase in the value of total retail, the proportion of online sales rose slightly, from 26.5% in October 2023 to 26.6% in November 2023.

Responding to the latest ONS Retail Sales Index figures, Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “Many retailers tried to give sales a needed boost in November by starting their Black Friday sales even earlier this year. Cosmetics and toiletries had another strong month as consumers continued to splurge on smaller indulgences. Some categories that usually do well in the Black Friday month, such as household electrical appliances, household goods, and furniture saw weak growth.”

“Retailers anticipate that consumers will be making a last-minute dash to their favourite stores in the final days leading up to Christmas. People in retail will be working tirelessly in stores, warehouses and delivery services to make sure we all find what they need, keeping shelves stocked and delivering goods. As stores and delivery services become increasingly busy this weekend, it is essential that we all play our part in creating a friendly and enjoyable environment for other customers and staff this Christmas, and we ask for patience, kindness and consideration.”

Source : ONS, BRC

Image : William Barton / shutterstock.com (753265135)

For all the very latest news and intelligence on the UK's largest home improvement and garden retailers, sign up for the Insight DIY weekly newsletter.