Retail Sales update July 2025

The ONS has postponed its Retail Sales, July 2025 report, originally due to be released today, to allow for further quality checks. The figures will now be published on 5 September. 

Because the ONS data is a core input into our retail sales model, we are not able to produce our full Retail Sales reports at this stage. Rather than delay, we are providing members with a short briefing that captures the key themes from July, with commentary across the seven main retail sectors and our analyst view.

July trading update

Industry data reported that July trading was lifted early in the month by warm weather and high-profile sporting events. Anecdotal evidence pointed to stronger demand for seasonal foods and drinks, summer clothing and sports merchandise linked to England’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 win. Momentum eased as the month progressed, with cooler weather and household caution limiting non-essential spending. 

Food & Grocery 

Kantar pointed to ongoing pressure from food inflation, with many households managing budgets by switching to own-label products and value ranges. Seasonal events such as the early heatwave and sports tournaments were noted as supporting demand in categories like barbecue foods, snacks and soft drinks. 

DIY & Gardening 

The gardening sector was boosted by the early July heatwave. Broader retail updates continued to flag subdued discretionary spending, which may have limited appetite for larger DIY projects.

Electricals 

The early month heatwave and mid-month promotional events lifted interest in electricals, though underlying category dynamics are unlikely to have shifted given ongoing budget pressures.

Health and Beauty 

Seasonal demand was visible in areas such as suncare, likely supported by summer holidays and the heatwave. In recent months there has been evidence of value ranges and promotional activity shaping consumers’ choices. 

Furniture/Homewares 

Seasonal gatherings, small household refreshes and promotional clearance events encouraged some spending within the home categories. 

Clothing and Footwear 

Seasonal weather and sporting events helped to support interest in summer apparel and footwear ranges during July, but as weather cooled so did sales (BRC).

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