UK retail sales volumes rose +0.5% MoM (vs 0.3% MoM expected) in August 2025, matching July’s gain, and were up +0.7% YoY, though volumes fell -0.1% on a 3Mo3M basis, reflecting persistent softness earlier in the period.

• Sales volumes were +0.8% higher on a 3MoY basis, but remained -2.1% below pre-pandemic February 2020 levels, highlighting longer-term weakness.

• Non-food stores rose +1.1% MoM, with gains across department stores, clothing, household goods, and other non-food stores, supported by strength in second-hand goods and clothing retailers.

• Specialist food stores, including butchers and bakers, rebounded from weak July sales, while overall food store volumes also improved.

• Non-store retailing (mainly online) increased again, marking a seventh straight monthly rise, contributing positively to growth.

• Automotive fuel and computer/telecoms equipment sales fell over the three-month period, offsetting some gains in clothing and non-store retailing.

• Online spending values rose +0.4% MoM and +4.7% YoY in August, with 3Mo3M growth at +2.0% and 3MoY growth at +3.4%. The online share of retail sales edged down slightly to 27.6% from 27.7% in July.