Retail sales grew at a modest pace in the year to May, following a tricky start to 2018, according to the latest CBI Quarterly Distributive Trades Survey.

Sales volumes remained a little below average for the time of year to the same degree as in April, with a similar picture expected for June. Orders placed on suppliers were slightly up over the year to May, with similar growth expected next month.

Across the retail sector, growth in sales volumes was reported in grocers, hardware and DIY and non-store goods (i.e. internet and mail order). Sales fell in specialist food and drink, clothing, footwear and leather, furniture & carpets, recreational goods and other normal goods. Growth in internet sales volumes in the year to May was largely unchanged compared with April, but is expected to accelerate in June.