The survey of 128 firms, of which 64 were retailers, showed that sales volumes are expected to rise again in the year to March, albeit at a slightly slower pace.

However, the volume of orders placed upon suppliers fell over the year to February, having been stable last month, and a further decline is expected next month. Sales for the time of year remained broadly in line with seasonal norms in February - for a second consecutive month - following above-average sales in the final two months of 2016.