Wet & dull weather hit sales in August

09 Sep '08

4 min read

The dull wet weather led to some early interest in new autumn ranges of shoes and boots, as even further discounts on sandals often failed to tempt customers. Men's sales dropped further below their year-earlier level. The squeeze on discretionary spending continued to favour value ranges, though premium designer ranges still gave gains for some.

Department Stores:
Trade remained difficult for most, despite some further clearances and extended discounts on summer ranges and homewares. Big-ticket housing-related items were often well down on a year ago. Beauty products and designerwear held up for some.

Furniture and Floorcoverings:
Despite widespread promotions, sales fell further to show a year-on-year decline for the seventh month in a row and forward orders showed no imminent uplift. Fitted kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms showed gains for some but dining and living were all difficult. Garden furniture was hit by the bad weather.

Health and Beauty:
Toiletries and cosmetics fell further below their year-earlier level to show the worst decline since late 2005. Widespread promotions and discounts helped core toiletries and healthcare where competition was strong between supermarkets and specialists. Skincare and suncare was hit by unseasonable weather but bronzing held up. Contemporary and premium skincare and fragrances showed gains for some.

British Retail Consortium

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