17/03/2010 - Weather hits February retail sales
Cautious shoppers and bad weather resulted in the worst February high street sales in more than a decade, according to the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC).
Like-for-like sales during the month were 1.1% lower than in February 2009 - the worst figures since the SRC KPMG Scottish Retail Sales Monitor began in 1999.
Non-food like-for-like sales dropped 2.6% from the same period last year, while food items rose 0.5%. However, the growth in food sales lost pace again last month after slowing down sharply in January.
Continuing snow and wet weather during February boosted sales of winter vegetables, stews and soups, while confectionery products benefited from Valentine's Day. However, some shoppers who spent generously over the Christmas period went for less expensive goods.
Footwear sales were less impressive than January, while extended cold temperatures meant poor start for spring and summer clothing ranges.
The homewares and DIY sector also suffered during the month as people limited their shopping to essentials.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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