British retailers buoyed by September spending surge

CBI survey reports best business conditions since before 2007 financial crisis, as low inflation and wage growth stimulate consumer demand

British retailers are reporting the best business conditions since before the financial crisis erupted in 2007 as low inflation and rising wages prompt a surge in consumer spending.

The CBI said in its monthly snapshot of the distributive trades that high street and online sales volumes were well above normal for the time of year, with food and clothes outlets notching up particularly strong performances.