Retail sales bounce back in Great Britain amid brighter signs for economy

The 0.5% rise in sales marks a significant bounce back in consumer spending after a 0.5% fall registered in July. Photograph: Yui Mok/PA The 0.5% rise in sales marks a significant bounce back in consumer spending after a 0.5% fall registered in July. Photograph: Yui Mok/PA Retail industry Retail sales bounce back in Great Britain amid brighter signs for economy Latest data to defy economic gloom shows 0.5% rise boosted by purchases of sports items, aircon units and fans during heatwaves

Prefer the Guardian on Google Retail sales across Great Britain unexpectedly rose last month, the latest economic indicator to defy gloomy forecasts as the chancellor, John Healey, prepares to present next month’s budget.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the volume of goods sold rose 0.5% month on month in August, defying analyst expectations of a 0.2% fall.