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UK retailers endure ‘drab December’ as non-food sales fall flat

UK retailers endure ‘drab December’ as non-food sales fall flat

13 Ocak 2026The Guardian

🤖AI Özeti

UK retailers experienced a disappointing December, with non-food sales, particularly in clothing and electronics, showing a notable decline. The British Retail Consortium reported an overall sales growth of just 1.2% compared to the previous year, falling short of the 12-month average of 2.3%. In contrast, discount supermarkets Aldi and Lidl reported strong trading figures during the holiday season.

💡AI Analizi

The stark contrast between the performance of discount supermarkets and traditional retailers highlights a significant shift in consumer behavior. As shoppers become more price-sensitive amid economic uncertainty, the success of Aldi and Lidl suggests that value-oriented shopping is becoming increasingly prioritized. This trend poses a challenge for non-discount retailers, who must adapt to changing consumer preferences or risk further declines in sales.

📚Bağlam ve Tarihsel Perspektif

The retail sector in the UK has been grappling with various challenges, including inflation, changing consumer habits, and the lingering effects of the pandemic. December is typically a crucial month for retailers, making the reported decline particularly concerning as it signals potential long-term issues for high streets across the country.

This summary is based on data and reports available as of January 2026 and may not reflect the most current developments.