UK homeware sales on the high street continued to show resilience, recording eleven consecutive weeks of positive growth, according to the latest data from the BDO High Street Sales Tracker. For the week ending 14 September 2025, total like-for-like (LFL) sales increased by 1.54%, while homeware-specific LFL sales rose 1.73% compared to the same period last year. This steady performance underlines the continued demand for homeware products, despite ongoing challenges in the retail environment.
© Sue Martin | DreamstimeWhile total homeware sales remained positive, store-based homeware sales dipped by 4.65%, marking the first negative outcome after eight consecutive weeks of growth. Similarly, non-store homeware sales fell 2.9%. However, overall store LFL sales still edged up 0.49%, and non-store LFL sales rose 0.72%, suggesting that consumers are still spending, albeit selectively across channels.
Footfall trends reflected a mixed picture across the retail landscape. Overall foot traffic declined 2%, primarily due to a drop on high streets (-3.9%) and shopping centres (-1.4%). Conversely, retail parks saw a modest improvement, with footfall rising 1.4%, indicating that consumers may be gravitating toward more open, accessible shopping environments.
BDO noted that fashion sales remained strong during the same period, potentially boosted by seasonal shopping patterns. The UK's variable weather, which shifted from warm to cooler and wetter conditions with frequent rainfall and flooding in northern areas and Wales, may also have influenced shopping behaviours, particularly in high streets and enclosed shopping centres.
Overall, the data highlights a positive trend for the homeware sector, demonstrating steady consumer interest despite external challenges. Retailers will need to continue adapting to changing shopping habits, leveraging both in-store and online channels to maintain growth momentum.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com
