Art and antiques help lift retail sales in Great Britain to biggest monthly rise since 2024

The Guardian World

by Alex Daniel

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Retail sales in Great Britain experienced a significant boost in January, rising by 1.8%, marking the largest monthly increase since May 2024. This growth exceeded forecasts of just a 0.2% rise and was fueled by post-Christmas discounting and consumer interest in larger purchases. The surge was particularly driven by strong sales in art, antiques, and jewelry, with online jewelers reporting robust demand. The rebound reflects a shift in consumer behavior following the festive season, as shoppers took advantage of heavy discounts to invest in higher-value items. This trend highlights a renewed confidence among buyers, potentially indicating a more optimistic economic outlook. The retail sector's performance also underscores the importance of sales periods and online platforms in driving spending trends. This rise in retail activity is significant for understanding broader economic indicators. It suggests that consumers are willing to spend on luxury goods despite ongoing economic uncertainties, which could signal a recovery in consumer confidence. Additionally, the strong showing by online jewelers points to the enduring impact of e-commerce on traditional retail sectors. The January figures also highlight the role of post-Christmas sales in revitalizing retail activity after the holiday season. By offering substantial discounts, businesses were able to attract customers back to bigger-ticket purchases, which had been relatively subdued in previous months. This strategy appears to have worked effectively, contributing to the overall growth in retail spending. In conclusion, the 1.8% increase in January marks a positive turning point for British retail sales. It not only beats expectations but also points to a potential revival in consumer spending on premium goods. This development is crucial for tracking economic health and could indicate a more resilient market moving forward.

Verticals

worldpolitics

Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026