Grocery sales volumes fell by 0.5% in May as the cost-of-living crisis and food prices continued to affect sales volumes, new data reveals.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) found more was spent on takeaways and fast food during the month as people celebrated the coronation and the usual May bank holiday.
In addition, the data shows petrol sales increased 1.7% in the month, up from a 1.7% fall in April. The ONS said this was possibly due to the low number of rail strikes in the month.
The ONS reveals overall retail sales volumes grew by 0.3% in May, slightly less than the 0.5% growth in April, and far better than the 0.2% decline predicted by economists.
Kelly Miely, Retail Partner at Deloitte, said: “Despite the sunshine and official data showing some strong annual pay increases, the situation remains difficult for both retailers and consumers. Consumers in particular are alive to persistent inflation driving stubbornly high food prices.
“A price-sensitive consumer is likely to stay with retailers that offer good value product ranges and cut prices of core items.”
