News Flash

Mid-May downturn disappoints retailers

13 Jun '08

2 min read

Planalytics Inc, the global leader in Business Weather Intelligence, released its May WeatherCall report highlighting an excellent start to the month, followed by a sharp downturn.

The beginning of May showed many positive signs due to favourable weather conditions and sales surged as pent up demand was released after a sluggish April.

Temperatures were on the rise heading into the month, and consumers were quick to respond, purchasing warm weather goods such as T-shirts and garden products.

However by mid-May, temperatures started falling and rainfall increased, resulting in a sharp drop in spending activity after a record breaking start to the month.

The South and Midlands received the brunt of the rain and gloomy conditions, while Northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland fared much better. Overall, the year-over-year change in temperature increased by 1.9 degrees from May 2007.

“The mid-month downturn was very disappointing for retailers,” commented Steve Speck, Senior Business Meteorologist for Planalytics Europe.

“Grey and overcast conditions combined with media headlines focusing on increasing fuel and food prices did nothing to stimulate demand,” added Fiona Nott.

Planalytics WeatherCall Report showed positive year-on-year weather driven demand indices for the following product categories on a national level: Horticulture (+75%), Sandals (+29%), Shorts (+15%), Swimwear (+6%).

Planalytics Inc

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