Disappointing retail sales point to a fragile recovery
22/01/10 | 10:34
Commenting on the December retail sales figures, published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The weaker than expected increase in retail sales points to a more challenging Christmas season than initially indicated by a number of larger retail chains. Although the figures are still consistent with a return to positive economic growth, it is clear that any recovery remains fragile and patchy.
“These figures suggest that smaller, independent retailers – those outside the major chains – are facing the biggest hurdles.
“While the Monetary Policy Committee need not increase its quantitative easing stimulus, it is too early to contemplate a reduction in the programme or an increase in interest rates. The main policy priority remains preventing a double-dip recession.”
Ends
Media Contact:
Sam Turvey
Tel: 020 7654 5813
Email: s.turvey@britishchambers.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
ONS: Retail sales grew by 0.3% over the month.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is the National Voice of Local Business.
The BCC sits at the heart of a powerful nationwide network of Accredited Chambers of Commerce serving business across the UK, which employ over five million people