FX.co ★ UK Core Retail Sales Bounce Back in December, Showing Signs of Recovery

In a promising turn for the UK economy, Core Retail Sales have shown a notable recovery in December 2025, with the indicator climbing to 0.3%. This marks a significant improvement from November's performance, where sales had slumped, registering a -0.2%. The latest data, updated on 23 January 2026, reflects a month-over-month comparison, indicating a positive shift in consumer spending patterns following a subdued November.

The December bounce back in core retail sales suggests a strengthening in consumer confidence as the UK heads into the new year. Analysts had been closely monitoring these figures as indicators of economic health, especially following the previous month’s decline. This turnaround could signify that retailers managed to pivot effectively for the holiday season, meeting consumer demand and potentially setting a trend for sustained growth in the coming months.

As the UK navigates complex economic challenges domestically and internationally, the turnaround in core retail sales may offer some reassurance. Retailers, analysts, and policymakers alike will be watching to see if this upward trend continues throughout 2026, as stability in consumer spending is crucial for the broader economic outlook.