Improved consumer confidence 'far from guaranteed'
– Howard Archer, EconomistIndeed, consumer confidence disappointingly suffered a relapse in October after edging up to a 15-month high in September, highlighting that sustained improvement in consumer spending is far from guaranteed over the coming months.
Busy streets, but shoppers are spending less
Weakening consumer confidence has led to a much worse than expected October for retailers. Retail sales volumes dropped 0.8% month-on-month.
Hope for the High Street: a dispatch from Horley, Surrey
The traders and locals on Horley High Street are determined to fight the seemingly endless tale of decline.
Dip in sales for Britain's battered retailers
Another drip of bad news for Britain's battered retailers. Retail figures for October show sales are down 0.8% compared with September.