The latest statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that sales volumes are down after a 0.9% rise in October.
During November, sales volume for non-store retailing, also declined by 2.8%. Retail sales volumes dropped by 6.2% in the three months to November. Non-food stores sales also fell by 0.6%.
BRC chief executive, Helen Dickinson, commented: “Sales growth failed to keep pace with inflation as sales volumes dropped for the eighth month in a row. Black Friday provided a small boost to retailers, but there are signs that many consumers are holding off Christmas spending until the last moment.
“Retailers may be slightly reassured by the marginal improvement in consumer confidence, but it remains well below levels see even at the height of the pandemic due to the ongoing cost of living squeeze.
“There was stronger growth for furniture, floors and textiles, as households chose to concentrate on improving the home ahead of Christmas. But many retailers will be holding their breath as they look to the hugely important December sales period.”
