The recently published ONS retail statistics data revealed the volume of sales in textile, clothing and footwear – fashion retail – shows a three-month growth rate of 2.1%. More broadly, while overall sales volumes fell by 1.3% during April 2026, sales have risen by 0.5% in the three months to April 2026, compared with the three months to January 2026
Non-food stores have risen by 3.3% in the 3 months to April 2026 following a quarterly rise of 4.7% at the end of March marking its largest three-monthly rise since Q1 2024.
Richard Saunders, Partner in Retail & Leisure Agency at commercial property consultancy, Hartnell Taylor Cook, comments:
“While growth was muted in April, against a backdrop of fragile consumer confidence the slight decrease in sales isn’t surprising. Despite this, there are reasons for optimism, particularly as an incoming heatwave is likely to support performance in the months ahead. This week we saw inflation ease to a 14-month low, another sprinkle of good news for the Treasury. Whilst we know there is continued pressure on discretionary spending, the data points to pockets of future growth and an outlook that looks more balanced than bleak.
“A key indicator here is the confidence in retail from investors. Landsec’s recent move to increase exposure to retail while scaling back office investment reflects a belief that footfall, spending and occupier demand are holding up. There’s a gap where some spaces simply aren’t fit for modern retail anymore, and they appear prepared to jump on this. For those who are brave enough to reposition and redevelop schemes, this is an opportunity-rich market. Many retail assets need to be delivered into mixed use schemes. The market is rightsizing and rebalancing, whilst making room for quality outlets and physical store experiences against the quick hit of online sales.
“This narrative of evolution, particularly beyond London, is key. Regional cities are stepping up their game in destination retail. From Bristol to Bath, we’re seeing distinctive, experience-led shopping thrive beyond the 9 to 5. It’s about echoing new lifestyle trends, recognising that getting a matcha decaf after a late-night gym session can be more appealing to a new generation of spenders than a pint in a pub. Independents and emerging brands are carving out space by being distinctive, not by competing with scale, and Park Street in Bristol is a great example. The street is brimming with new entrants and longstanding occupiers alike, breathing life into this re-emerging sub-district of the city. It highlights the potential for other areas to evolve into exciting, dynamic parts of the city when curated in the right way.
“The longevity of retail streets no doubt have something intangible: character, personality, a sense of discovery, as well as modern brands people want to visit. Bath shows that this combination works, a compact city with the magic ingredients of strong tourism, affluent residents, a few out-of-town retail alternatives to compete with, making every street count – from Stall Street to New Bond Street and other discovery positions this wonderful city has in abundance.
“Overall, the long-term view of the retail cycle combined with sustained occupier appetite gives reason for optimism. The emphasis for investors is moving away from F&B and hospitality as operational costs bite, towards lower risk prime assets on the high street that can act as anchors for wider activity.
“Fashion in particular feels like it’s on a springboard. I am seeing strong demand from leading international fashion brands for high-quality space in the right locations, and a willingness to pay for it. Demand is concentrating in the most compelling ‘cool’ cities and streets, with rental growth following. At the same time, the resurgence of M&S demonstrates that the high street can reinvent itself and outperform – a real heartfelt comeback story for British retail. The challenge now is striking the right balance between bold vision and practical delivery, recognising that progress often comes from doing the right thing, rather than simply the biggest thing.”
