UK retail sales tumble by most in over 40 years, CBI survey shows

British retailers reported the sharpest year-on-year sales decline in more than 40 years, according to a Confederation of British Industry survey. The slump was linked to rising household inflation fears triggered by the Iran war, pointing to weaker consumer demand and heightened macro risk for the UK retail sector. The data signal a material hit to sentiment and near-term spending outlook.

Analysis

British retailers reported the sharpest year-on-year sales decline in more than 40 years, according to a Confederation of British Industry survey. The slump was linked to rising household inflation fears triggered by the Iran war, pointing to weaker consumer demand and heightened macro risk for the UK retail sector. The data signal a material hit to sentiment and near-term spending outlook.