"The increase was driven largely by a sharp rise in fuel sales, with volumes jumping 6.1 per cent - the strongest monthly gain since April 2021. Statisticians said the spike was concentrated over a short period, as motorists rushed to fill up amid rapidly rising prices linked to tensions in the Middle East."
"The value of fuel sales rose even faster, climbing 11.6 per cent as petrol and diesel prices surged. Data from the RAC shows petrol prices have climbed to 157.34p per litre, while diesel has risen to 189.88p."
"Overall, retail sales volumes rose by 1.6 per cent over the first quarter of 2026, supported by stronger activity in January and the March rebound. The figures suggest consumer spending remains resilient in the face of rising costs."
"ONS senior statistician Hannah Finselbach said: 'Retail sales rose in the three months to March, with commercial art galleries doing well earlier in the quarter and sales in beauty products stores rising as retailers reported launching new collections.'"
In March, UK retail sales volumes increased by 0.7%, rebounding from a 0.6% decline in February. The growth was primarily fueled by a 6.1% rise in fuel sales, the highest since April 2021, as motorists rushed to fill up due to rising prices linked to Middle East tensions. While clothing sales rose by 1.2%, food sales fell by 0.8%, indicating pressure on household budgets. Overall, retail sales volumes increased by 1.6% in the first quarter of 2026, suggesting resilience in consumer spending despite rising costs.
Read at London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
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