(Feb 20): UK retail sales started the year with the fastest growth in 20 months, an unexpected surge that could boost the Labour government’s efforts to revive the economy. The numbers were lifted by fuel sales, while the ONS also pointed to strong sales of artwork and antiques, alongside continued high numbers from online jewellers. “Online sales have been a particular bright spot, likely boosted by the wet weather,” said Sandra Prince at Lloyds, a bank. Interest rate cuts and falling inflation are also likely to have improved the mood in British shopping districts. Still, Paul Dales from Capital Economics warned: “With employment growth weak and wage growth slowing, households won’t be able to maintain this rate of spending.”

Source: The Edge Markets February 20, 2026 08:07 UTC