Homeware sales on the UK high street have remained positive for a sixth consecutive week, according to the latest BDO High Street Sales Tracker for the week ending 20 April 2025.
Total like-for-like (LFL) sales grew by 7.8% compared to the same week last year. Homewares in particular saw a strong performance, with total LFL sales up by 13.52%, building on last year's positive base of 5.25%. Store-based homeware sales drove the growth, recording a 14.32% rise from a flat base of 0.18% in 2024.
However, non-store homeware sales declined by 1.88%, marking the seventh fall in the past ten weeks, despite a strong 4.83% increase during the same period last year. Overall, both store and total homeware sales have recorded growth in seven out of the last ten weeks.
Total store LFL sales rose by 8.77%, bouncing back from a negative base of -3.47% in the previous year. Non-store sales across all categories also rose by 7.11%, supported by a 2.06% gain last year.
BDO noted that 'healthy store and non-store sales contributed to this week's result,' highlighting strong performance in both fashion and homewares.
Weather conditions across the UK were mixed during the week, with regions such as London, Scotland, and the East of England experiencing mild, dry conditions. In contrast, the west of England and Wales faced heavy rainfall and flooding. Last year's conditions during the same period were notably drier and sunnier.
Footfall also saw a positive uptick, rising by 5.0%. Shopping centres led the increase at 6.3%, followed by high streets at 4.6% and retail parks at 4.5%.
The results reflect continued resilience in physical retail, particularly within the homeware sector.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com