Retail sales bounce back in January

Retail sales bounced back in January to mark the biggest monthly increase since May 2024.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a 1.8% rise in sales volumes, up from 0.4% in December.

Subscribe to TRB

The ONS said the month’s growth was driven by automotive fuel sales, art galleries and online jewellers. Household goods stores also grew, which retailers attributed to good January sales for furniture.

Online jewellers reported “unprecedented” demand, while sports supplement retailers also saw strong trade and auctions of artwork and antiques had a good month.

Meanwhile, sales volumes rose by 0.1% in the three months to January 2026, compared with the three months to October 2025. Sales volumes were 2.6% higher than in the three months to January 2025.

RELATED ARTICLES

• Consumer confidence and retail sales both rise amid "Burnham bounce"
• Retail sales rise more than expected in May
• Warm weather boosts retail sales in May
• Retail sales drop in April as consumers buy less fuel
• Retail sales increased in March as motorists stocked up on fuel
• Consumer confidence falls amid Middle East fears as retail sales also disappoint
• Wet weather impacts February retail sales

Show more related articles >