Retail sales jump on strong Easter demand

(Sharecast News) - UK retail sales shone in March, industry data showed on Tuesday, after shoppers splashed out on food and drink for Easter. According to the latest BRC-KPMG retail sales monitor, total UK sales rose by 3.6% in the five weeks to 4 April, compared to growth of 1.1% a year previously and a 1.1% rise in February 2026.

Driving the rise were food sales, which spiked 6.8%. Non-food sales edged up 0.9% higher. Sales in store were 1.4% higher, compared to the modest 0.1% uplift seen online.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: "An early Easter provided a much-needed boost to food sales as families came together over the long weekend. Non-food was more uneven: demand was robust for computers, toys and homeware, but clothing and footwear continued to struggle."

Easter fell into the March reporting period in 2026, but the later timing in 2025 meant it was included in the April period in 2025.

However, Dickinson added: "Retailers hope that the Middle East ceasefire will bring lasting stability, but the outlook remains uncertain. Damage to supply chains has already been done and rising costs - from shipping and fertiliser to insurance and commodities - are piling yet more pressure onto already stretched retailers."

Linda Ellett, UK head of consumer, retail and leisure at KPMG, said: "Food and drink continue to drive monthly retail sales, with inflation a key factor. Non-food sales growth remains tepid, growing at under 1% so far this year, as consumer spending caution is heightened by the current and potential impact of the Middle East conflict."

Sarah Bradbury, chief executive of trade body IGD, said: "Shopper confidence has dropped to the lowest level since 2023. While occasions such as Mother's Day and Eid provided moments of celebration, they were not enough to offset growing shopper concerns about rising costs. The months ahead will be challenging for both shoppers and the food and drink industry."