Retail sales rose in the last quarter of 2005 following a trend of growth that began during the summer, according to official figures.
Data from October to December was up 1.6% on the previous three months, the highest rise since July, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports.
Monthly sales rose 0.4% from November to December, marking the sector’s fifth straight month of gains.
The growth was positive for all sectors, with food stores showing growth of 1.1% and non-food stores up by 2.2%.
Also, non-specialised stores sold 2.7% more and household goods shops had the
largest growth in the retail sector with a rise of 3.6%.
But while retailers have gotten back on their feet, some have warned that their growth may not last.
Economist Dr Neil Blake, of Experian, said: “Official data continues to suggest that underlying activity is recovering.
“Comparisons with a year ago were expected to be strong, given the exceptionally weak festive season of 2004.
“But the good news may not last. Sales are expected to flatten off in early 2006, implying that three-month growth rates fall back again.”
