The warmer weather provided a boost for supermarkets, with the retail sales volume increasing by 0.4 per cent in the three months to May 2026 compared to the three months to February 2026.

According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), retail sales volumes went up by 1.2 per cent in May.

This comes after a decrease of 1 per cent in April 2026 and an increase of 0.7 per cent in March.

The UK sales volumes increased by 3.2 per cent year-on-year to May 2026, which was driven by promotions and hot weather, according to retailers.

Rajeev Shaunak, head of consumer at MHA, said: “Retail sales bounced back unexpectedly well in May as the spring heatwave, early bank holiday and a pre-World Cup buzz gave the high street a badly needed boost after April’s disappointing slump.

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“Shoppers were tempted back by the sunshine, with sandals, sunglasses and barbecue food enjoying their brief but glorious moment in the British sun, alongside stronger demand for food and drink, health and beauty products and days out. Promotions also drove increased retail volume.

“But no one should mistake a sunnier month for a real high street revival. Consumer confidence remains stuck deep in negative territory as revealed overnight. Families are still worried about their finances and the wider economy, and many are putting off big purchases, cutting back on treats and trying to save what they can.”

This news comes after the ONS recently released data showing the rate of inflation has slowed down within its latest results.