British retail sales jump as online jewellery firms offer surprise Christmas sparkle

The Guardian - World NewsEN 2 min read 100% complete by Tom KnowlesJanuary 23, 2026 at 10:11 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

UK retail sales unexpectedly rose by 0.4% in December, according to the Office for National Statistics, defying economists' predictions of a decline. The increase was primarily driven by strong online sales, particularly from internet jewellers experiencing higher demand for gold and silver. While overall sales for the "golden quarter" (October-December) saw a slight decrease, December's boost suggests growing consumer confidence, supported by a GfK survey showing increased optimism about personal finances. Despite the December surge, non-food stores experienced a decline, and popular Christmas items saw reduced sales. Overall in 2025, retail sales increased by 1.3% after large falls in 2022 and 2023.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Pantheon Macroeconomics 40% Elliott Jordan-Doak 50% GfK 50% Hannah Finselbach 60% Rachel Reeves 60% Great Britain 70% Office for National Statistics ×280% United Kingdom 90%

Keywords

retail sales 100% christmas trading period 80% online sales 70% consumer confidence 60% jewellery 60% household finances 50% economic uncertainty 50% golden quarter 40%