Investing.com – Retail sales in Britain jumped unexpectedly in September, rising to their highest level since May 2004, industry data showed on Tuesday.
In a report the Confederation of British Industry said the result of its index of U.K. retailers was 49 in September, up from 35 in August.
Analysts had expected the index to decline to 27 in September.
On the index, a reading above zero indicates higher sales volume, below indicates lower.
Commenting on the report, CBI Chief Economic Advisor, Ian McCafferty said, “The bank holiday weekend, combined with the tail-end of summer sales have resulted in a bumper period for retailers. Clothing and footwear sales in particular look to have been boosted by the launch of new autumn ranges”.
He added that, “Retailers expect sales growth to continue next month and, as we get closer to January, sales will be helped by households seeking to beat the VAT rise”.
Following the release of the data, the pound was up against the U.S. dollar, with GBP/USD gaining 0.21% to hit 1.5863.
In a report the Confederation of British Industry said the result of its index of U.K. retailers was 49 in September, up from 35 in August.
Analysts had expected the index to decline to 27 in September.
On the index, a reading above zero indicates higher sales volume, below indicates lower.
Commenting on the report, CBI Chief Economic Advisor, Ian McCafferty said, “The bank holiday weekend, combined with the tail-end of summer sales have resulted in a bumper period for retailers. Clothing and footwear sales in particular look to have been boosted by the launch of new autumn ranges”.
He added that, “Retailers expect sales growth to continue next month and, as we get closer to January, sales will be helped by households seeking to beat the VAT rise”.
Following the release of the data, the pound was up against the U.S. dollar, with GBP/USD gaining 0.21% to hit 1.5863.