The survey of 113 firms, consisting of 52 retailers, showed that sales fell modestly at the start of this year. Looking ahead, volumes are set to grow in the year to February.

Sales volumes were considered to be broadly in line with the average for the time of year, having been above seasonal norms at the end of 2016. Orders placed on suppliers were broadly unchanged over the year, and are expected to fall marginally next month.

The moderate decline in retail sales volumes was driven by grocers, where sales fell at the fastest pace since August 2004. However, continually healthy growth was reported elsewhere, particularly among clothing retailers and department stores.