There has been further positive news for local retail businesses, with sales reported as having risen for the fifth consecutive month.
Retail businesses operating across Calderdale, Kirklees, Wakefield and throughout West Yorkshire have battled restrictions and uncertainty throughout 2020, with many forced to temporarily close their doors and others forced out of business entirely.
But the latest figures show an increase for the fifth consecutive month, with DIY and gardening products helping to provide a boost as Brits turn to home improvement while movement between households is restricted.
The Office for National Statistics reports that total retail sales volumes rose by 1.5% between August and September, with spend on supermarket groceries remaining high.
Overall, sales are now 5.5% higher than the pre-pandemic levels seen in February.
The three months leading up to September saw the biggest increase on record, as numbers rose by 17.4% compared with the previous three months.
Fuel is the only major sector to remain below pre-pandemic levels, with fewer motorists on the road, while experts are also learning more about the broader impact of recent lockdown measures on the local and national economy.
A recent study indicated a “sharp slowdown” in growth due to the much weaker contribution from the service sector.
The findings demonstrate that tighter restrictions across the hospitality sector have had an impact on operators not only in that industry, but also on associated marketplaces.
Cooper Accounting is working with sole traders, partnerships and small businesses to navigate the challenges of Coronavirus.
We offer free, practical advice around the incentives and options available during such a tough economic period.
Get in touch for an informal chat.
