The lifting of Covid restrictions has led to the UK’s best quarter for retail sales.
Retail sales surged 10.4% compared to the same period in 2019, whilst they were up 28% compared to the same period in 2020 at the start of the pandemic.
“The second quarter of 2021 saw exceptional growth as the gradual unlocking of the UK economy encouraged a release of pent-up demand built up over previous lockdowns,” said Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium.
“With many people taking staycations, or cheaper UK-based holidays, many have found they have a little extra to spend at the shops, with strong growth in-store in June.
“Fashion and footwear did well while the sun was out in the first half of June, while the start of Euro 2020 provided a boost for TVs, snack food and beer,” she added.
Total sales jumped 13.1% compared to the same period in 2019.