Non-food and DIY Stores Lead the Way

  • Retail sales volumes partly rebounded in May, according to ONS
  • Non-food and DIY stores saw a strong increase in sales
  • Furniture, electrical appliances, and hardware stores experienced growth
  • Overall retail sales still down by 13.1% compared to February
  • Value sales fell by 14.2% year-on-year and 13.9% in the three months to May
  • Record decline of 12.8% in retail sales volume for the three months to May
  • Online spending soared to a record high of 33.4% in May
  • Food online shopping increased from 9.3% to 11.3%

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) has reported a partial rebound in retail sales volumes in May after significant declines earlier this year. Non-food and DIY stores experienced a strong increase, particularly in household goods. However, overall sales remain down by 13.1% compared to February before the coronavirus impact. Online shopping also reached record highs at 33.4%.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) about the impact of coronavirus on retail sales volumes and value. It presents data and statistics clearly and does not include sensationalism or opinion masquerading as fact. However, it could be improved by providing more context for the record falls experienced in March and April, and explaining how the 12% increase in May compares to previous months.
Noise Level: 6
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the impact of COVID-19 on retail sales but could benefit from more analysis or context. It reports on the latest statistics and trends without diving too deep into the reasons behind them or exploring potential long-term consequences.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: UK retail sector
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on UK retail sales volumes and value, which can affect companies within the sector and potentially financial markets.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the text.

Reported publicly: www.retailsector.co.uk