July could be ‘lull before the storm’ for retailers and consumers

Cost of living crisis and rising inflation predicted to hit consumer confidence and spending

July could be the lull before the storm" for retailers and consumers after the heatwave boosted sales of summer clothing, picnic treats and electric fans despite the intensifying cost of living crisis, experts have warned.

Figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) revealed a 2.3% sales rise last month compared with a 6.4% rise the year before.