UK retail sales growth slowed more than predicted in the month of September, according to the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
The figures showed that total sales fell by 0.8% when compared with August, making it much lower than the 0.1% drop that was expected.
Year-on-year retail growth for Q3 overall was 1.3%, which is the weakest rate of annual growth since Q2 in 2013.
This slow growth has been attributed to inflation, as consumers have less disposable income. Inflation was at a five year high of 3% in September and is expected to increase a little above that in October.
Kate Davies, ONS senior statistician, said: “September’s retail sales saw a monthly decline of 0.8%, reversing August’s growth. However, there is a continuation of the underlying trend of steady growth in sales volumes following a weak start to the year, and a background of generally rising prices.
“These increased costs are reflected in the more rapid growth in the amount spent when compared with the quantity bought.”