The underlying pattern in the retail industry is one of growth; for the three-months on three-months measure, the quantity bought increased by 0.6%.

In September 2017, the quantity bought in the retail industry decreased by 0.8% when compared with August 2017; non-food stores provided the greatest downward pressure following growth in August 2017.

Year on year, the quantity bought in the retail sector increased by 1.2%, with non-food (household goods, clothing stores) and non-store retailing all providing growth.

Store prices continue to rise across all store types and are at their highest year-on-year price growth since March 2012 at 3.3% (non-seasonally adjusted).

Online sales values increased year-on-year by 14%, accounting for approximately 17% of all retail spending.