Retail sales in Great Britain plummet as Christmas shoppers cut back

December figures show biggest monthly fall since shops were forced to close during pandemic in 2021

• Analysis: Retail slump raises spectre of UK recession

Retailers in Great Britain suffered a dire Christmas as cash-strapped consumers cut back on shopping in December, fuelling the biggest fall in monthly sales since shops were forced to close during the coronavirus pandemic in 2021.

Sales plummeted 3.2% year on year as retailers across the board suffered as the cost of living crisis resulted in consumers making tough decisions, including choosing between buying food or presents.