UK retail sales volumes climbed 0.7% month-on-month in March 2026, rebounding from a revised 0.6% decline in February and beating market expectations of a 0.2% increase. The recovery was driven largely by higher fuel purchases, with retailers reporting that motorists were stocking up amid the war in the Middle East. Excluding automotive fuel, retail trade still rose, but by a more modest 0.2%.
Non-food stores recorded a 0.7% gain, supported by stronger clothing sales as weather conditions improved. Auction houses and computer and telecoms retailers also delivered solid performances, helped by new product launches. Non-store retailers benefited from spring promotions and fresh product releases, with sales volumes reaching their highest level since February 2022. By contrast, commercial art galleries saw a decline, giving back some of the strong gains posted in January and February.
On an annual basis, retail sales volumes increased 1.7% in March, slightly below the 1.8% rise in February but still above the consensus forecast of a 1.3% gain.
