UK shop price growth sees slight drop in April 2023: BRC

05 May 23 2 min read

Insights

  • Shop price inflation in the UK slightly decelerated to 8.8 per cent in April, but still remains near record-highs, as per the BRC.
  • Non-food inflation also decelerated to 5.5 per cent, but remains elevated.
  • Retailers are offering discounts to help customers, but ongoing regulatory burdens could contribute to current high prices for households.
Shop price annual inflation in the UK decelerated to 8.8 per cent in April, down slightly from 8.9 per cent in March. This is above the 3-month average rate of 8.7 per cent. Shop price growth remains near record-highs, as per the British Retail Consortium (BRC).

Non-food inflation decelerated to 5.5 per cent in April, down from 5.9 per cent in March. This is below the 3-month average rate of 5.6 per cent. Inflation remains elevated in this category, the BRC said in a press release.

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“Overall shop price inflation eased slightly in April due to heavy spring discounting in clothing, footwear, and furniture. Retailers remain committed to helping their customers and keeping prices as low as possible. The government must also help by minimising the impact of oncoming regulatory burdens as these will hold back investment and ultimately contribute to ongoing high prices for already-squeezed households,” said Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC.

“In recent weeks, more retailers have used loyalty schemes or money off promotions to help stimulate sales. However, with inflation yet to peak and sales volumes in decline in many channels, it’s difficult to second guess the strength of consumer confidence. Given the falls in disposable income we really need to see CPI back into single figures and a slowdown in food inflation to test shoppers’ willingness to spend,” said Mike Watkins, head of retailer and business insight, NielsenIQ.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (NB)

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