Homeware sales on the high street have declined for the second consecutive week, according to the latest BDO High Street Sales Tracker. Total like-for-like (LFL) sales fell by 6.89% for the week ending 2 March 2025.
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Homeware LFL sales dropped by -3.24%, following a significant decline of -21.02% in the same period last year. Store homeware sales also saw a decrease of -3.08% compared to a -9.70% fall in 2024. This marks two consecutive weeks of negative performance across both categories.
Total store LFL sales were down -5.46%, following a -3.50% decline in the same week last year. Meanwhile, non-store LFL sales fell sharply by -10.26%, building on a -4.76% drop in 2024.
BDO noted that sales declined across all retail segments and channels, with February's final week recording the lowest total LFL sales since November 2024. 'Lifestyle saw the sharpest drop as both store and non-store LFL sales fell by double digits,' the report stated.
The UK experienced varied weather conditions during the week, with sunny spells in the south and heavy rain in northern regions. BDO highlighted that the corresponding week in 2024 was also marked by wet and windy weather.
Despite the downturn in sales, overall footfall increased by 3.9%. High streets led the growth with a 4.3% rise, followed by retail parks at 4.0% and shopping centres at 3.0%.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com