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16/04/2009
Drop In March Retail Sales
There was a second consecutive monthly fall in retail sales recorded in March, it has been revealed.
However, despite like-for-like sales falling, some have suggested that the Easter period could have skewed findings.
According to the British Retail Consortium sales for the month - compared to the same period in 2008 - were down 1.2%.
A drop of 1.8% was recorded in February by the body.
Total sales, which include new floorspace, rose 0.6% on the year after a rise of 0.1% in the month before.
This year Easter fell in April, whereas in 2008 it was in March, which the BRC has said could be a contributing factor in the latest figures.
"March this year didn't include Easter but it did benefit from some good weather," said Stephen Robertson, BRC Director General.
"But there were sharp contrasts between sectors. A slight air of pre-spring optimism tempted customers to buy new-season clothing and women's footwear."
Sales in food and clothing continued to show strength, however, the BRC warned that long term financial worries were likely to have an impact on spending on the high street.
Analysts expect the British economy to shrink by around 3% this year, the most dramatic downturn since the Second World War.
(PR/BMcC)
However, despite like-for-like sales falling, some have suggested that the Easter period could have skewed findings.
According to the British Retail Consortium sales for the month - compared to the same period in 2008 - were down 1.2%.
A drop of 1.8% was recorded in February by the body.
Total sales, which include new floorspace, rose 0.6% on the year after a rise of 0.1% in the month before.
This year Easter fell in April, whereas in 2008 it was in March, which the BRC has said could be a contributing factor in the latest figures.
"March this year didn't include Easter but it did benefit from some good weather," said Stephen Robertson, BRC Director General.
"But there were sharp contrasts between sectors. A slight air of pre-spring optimism tempted customers to buy new-season clothing and women's footwear."
Sales in food and clothing continued to show strength, however, the BRC warned that long term financial worries were likely to have an impact on spending on the high street.
Analysts expect the British economy to shrink by around 3% this year, the most dramatic downturn since the Second World War.
(PR/BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
