Sales Growth On The High Street Expected To Continue

Retailers have seen growth for the second month running according to the CBI Distributive Trades Survey for March. The trend is expected to continue through Easter. Sales volumes were reported to be higher than the same time last year as expected. The volume of orders also grew for the second month in a row. Stock levels are more than adequate to meet demand. Very strong sales were reported by grocers, durable household goods, clothing, furniture and carpet retailers. Hardware, china and DIY reported falling sales for the second month. The wholesale sector also saw a fall in sales against expectations. There was strong sales growth in the food and drink sector but agricultural machinery sales and builders merchants had a difficult month. Motor traders also had another bad month due to a drop in vehicle sales while parts and accessories sales grew for a second month.