UK retail sales fell by 0.5% in July, compared to a rise of approximately 0.7% in June, matching market expectations. However, sales in the three months to July rose by 1.1%, supported by increased sales in non-traditional stores.

Specifically, retail sales excluding automotive fuel fell by 0.9% in July, while sales in non-food stores rose by 0.3%. Sales in household goods stores fell by 1.9%, and sales outside of stores declined by 3.6% in July.