FX.co ★ UK Retail Sales Worse than Expected: CBI

The CBI retail sales balance dropped to -55 in September 2026 from -48 in August, its lowest level in five months and below market expectations of -50. Retailers reported a sharper year-on-year decline in sales, with performance increasingly viewed as poor for the time of year as weak consumer sentiment continued to dampen demand. Online retail sales slumped to -68 from -43, the fastest rate of decline since October 2023. Orders placed with suppliers also fell sharply, with the balance plunging to -62 from -29—the steepest drop since the survey began in 1983—indicating that retailers are cutting back on purchases in response to softer demand. Total distribution sales, which include wholesale and motor trades, also contracted at a faster pace, with the balance falling to -36 from -27. Looking ahead, retailers expect sales to continue declining in October, albeit at a slower yet still rapid rate, while online sales and supplier orders are projected to remain deeply negative. Stock levels relative to expected sales remained below their long-run average.