UK retail sales volumes rose 0.5% month-on-month in August 2026, defying market expectations of a 0.2% fall and rebounding from a 0.5% decline in July. Non-store retailers partially recovered from July’s decline, when earlier promotional activity in June pulled sales forward. Non-food store sales volumes rose 0.6%, with department stores recovering from stock availability issues and clothing retailers rebounding after weaker July sales. Online sales values also rose 2.5%, following a 4.2% increase in the prior period. Meanwhile, fuel sales fell as sharp price rises prompted consumers to change buying habits, including partially filling tanks. Over the three months, sales volumes grew 0.9%, supported by warm weather, strong non-store and food sales, and higher alcohol and beverage sales linked to promotions and the World Cup. On a yearly basis, retail sales volumes rose 2.4%, exceeding the expected 1.9% increase and accelerating from a 1.2% gain in July.