British retail sales increase in December defying economist forecasts
British retail sales grew by 0.4 percent in December, exceeding market expectations. This surprise growth follows a contraction earlier in the quarter.
Insights:
Official figures released on Friday, January 23, 2026, showed that retail sales in the United Kingdom 
GBrose by 0.4 percent in December compared to the previous month. This result significantly outperformed the Reuters economist consensus, which had predicted a decline of 0.1 percent for the final month of the year. The unexpected growth represents a reversal of the negative trend observed in the preceding two months, as both November and October recorded declines in consumer spending activity.
GBrose by 0.4 percent in December compared to the previous month. This result significantly outperformed the Reuters economist consensus, which had predicted a decline of 0.1 percent for the final month of the year. The unexpected growth represents a reversal of the negative trend observed in the preceding two months, as both November and October recorded declines in consumer spending activity.
