Retail sales also grew by 1.3% in November, compared with a decline of 0.3% in October, according to ONS figures.
Overall, broader retail sales volumes (including food) fell by 0.8% in the three months to November 2023 when compared with the previous three months.
Non-food store sales volumes rose by 2.3% in November, following a 0.2% increase the previous month. Retailers attributed earlier Black Friday sales and wider discounting to the increase.
Non-store retailing (predominantly online retailers) sales volumes rose by 0.2% in November, following a rise of 0.5% in October.
Darren Morgan, director of economic statistics at the ONS, said: “Retail sales grew strongly in November as heavy Black Friday discounting encouraged shoppers to spend. However, with the three-month trend continuing to fall and overall sales still below pre-pandemic levels, it’s still a challenging time for retailers.
“In the latest month, household goods retailers, clothing shops and department stores all reported robust sales, with computer stores, sports equipment, toy shops and cosmetics stores particularly benefitting from the impact of their Black Friday promotions.
“Supermarket sales ticked up a little, but it was specialist food and drink stores that had a really strong November due to customers stocking up early for Christmas and spending more than we have traditionally seen at this time of year.”
Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), said: “Many retailers tried to give sales a needed boost in November by starting their Black Friday sales even earlier this year. Cosmetics and toiletries had another strong month as consumers continued to splurge on smaller indulgences. Some categories that usually do well in the Black Friday month, such as household electrical appliances, household goods, and furniture saw weak growth.”
“Retailers anticipate that consumers will be making a last-minute dash to their favourite stores in the final days leading up to Christmas. People in retail will be working tirelessly in stores, warehouses and delivery services to make sure we all find what they need, keeping shelves stocked and delivering goods. As stores and delivery services become increasingly busy this weekend, it is essential that we all play our part in creating a friendly and enjoyable environment for other customers and staff this Christmas, and we ask for patience, kindness and consideration.”
