UK retail sales jumped in January, rising by 2.6%.
The rise compared with a 1.2% increase in January 2025, according to BRC/KPMG. Food sales rose by 2.8% – although the increase was less than half of that seen in 2024. Non-food sales rose by 2.5% – a significant turnaround compared with 2024’s 2.8% drop.
‘2025 got off to a welcome start for retailers with much needed sales growth in January. But viewed over a three-month period that included Christmas and Black Friday, non-food sales have flatlined. Overall, the golden quarter failed to shine. The trading environment remains tough for retailers, with consumer demand still subdued and household essential bills still high,’ says Linda Ellett, KPMG UK head of consumer, retail & leisure.
