Retail sales in Great Britain rise despite cost of living crisis

July rise of 0.3% driven by online promotions but clothing sales continue to fall

Retail sales in Great Britain unexpectedly rose in July as consumers continued spending, despite concerns over the cost of living crisis.

The Office for National Statistics said sales volumes rose by 0.3% on the month, after a revised fall of 0.2% in June, with a range of online sales promotions helping to overcome a broader trend for a decline in spending.