UK retail sales reportedly fell 0.4% in September, more than forecast

UK retail sales volumes fell 0.4% in September 2026, compared with the 0.1% drop economists expected, according to a Bloomberg-credited report in The Business Times. It links the decline to weaker food purchases and above-average temperatures affecting autumn-clothing demand. Sales rose across the third quarter. The report also cites a sharp October decline in consumer confidence but does not name the survey or give its reading.