British retail sales fell by the most in nearly a year in April, official data shows. Sales volumes dropped 1.3% month-on-month.
The decline was the biggest since May 2025, when sales fell 1.4%. Economists had expected a 0.6% drop.
Fuel sales fell as consumers conserved fuel after stockpiling in March when prices rose.
Year-on-year, sales were flat, missing expectations of a 1.3% rise.
The Iran war and rising energy costs are hitting consumer confidence. Higher mortgage costs add to the pressure.
Major retailers cite uncertainty from the Iran conflict. However, Next and Currys reported better results.
