British retailers have recorded the worst month for sales in July since records began, as consumers tighten their belts with Brexit approaching. UK retailers have experienced the worst period since records began in 2001 . Data from the British Research Consortium , compiled by Nielsen , shows total sales increased 0.3 % this July , compared with 1.6 % last year . Average growth in sales in the UK over the last 12 months was 0.5 % , the lowest on record , and June and July have likewise produced record - lows . This marks the worst period for the high street in eight years .
UK retailers have experienced the worst period since records began in 2001 . Data from the British Research Consortium , compiled by Nielsen , shows total sales increased 0.3 % this July , compared with 1.6 % last year . Average growth in sales in the UK over the last 12 months was 0.5 % , the lowest on record , and June and July have likewise produced record - lows . This marks the worst period for the high street in eight years .