Homeware sales increased on the high street, ending thirteen weeks negative results.

According to the latest BDO High Street Sales Tracker, total like-for-like (LFL) sales rose by 21.79% for the week ending 17 July 2022.

Total Homeware LFLs rose by 0.83% this week, with in store sales also up by 8.65%. This week marks the category’s first positive LFL since the third week of April 2022 following thirteen consecutive weeks of negative LFLs.

Total in-store LFL sales increased by +29.77% from a base of +34.67% for the same week last year. Total non-store LFL sales rose by 10.30% from a base of +15.66% for the same week last year.

Commenting on the results, the BDO said: “This week’s total LFLs result marks its highest since the second week of April 2022, potentially signalling an increase in retail activity as consumers gear up for a record setting heatwave. Homewares also recorded a positive result for the first time since April 2022.

“This weather this week saw strong July sunshine with temperatures consistently rising and reaching over 30°C in many parts of the UK. The same week last year saw a steady rise in temperature levels with strong sunshine.”

Overall footfall climbed by +18.5% this week compared to the same week last year, with the high street seeing the largest increase (+24.6%) while shopping centres saw footfall rise by +20.5% and retail park saw an increase of +3.3%.