Heatwave and online shopping rebound delivers boost to June retail spending

UK retail sales volumes unexpectedly increased by 1% in June 2026, surpassing economists' forecasts of a 0.1% monthly decline. This rise was primarily driven by hot weather, which boosted purchases of clothing and air conditioning, and a significant rebound in online shopping, reaching a five-year high. Additionally, increased sales in sports merchandise, alcohol, and tobacco were noted, partly attributed to the early matches of the Fifa World Cup.