High street sales 'weak on all fronts' in August

High street sales in Scotland were "weak on all fronts" last month, according to a new report.

The SRC-KPMG Scottish Retail Sales Monitor said sales were 2.4% down on a year ago, when they were boosted by major events such as the end of the Commonwealth Games.

Total food sales improved on July's figures, but were 3% down on the same period last year.

Non-food sales were 1.9% lower than in August 2014.

When adjusted for deflation measured by the BRC-Nielsen Shop Price Index (SPI), total Scottish sales decreased by 1.1%.

'Incredibly challenging'

David Martin, head of policy and social affairs at the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC), said: "Despite an uptick in consumer confidence, August sales performance pales in comparison to the like-for-like performance a year earlier when major events, like the finale to the Commonwealth Games, helped to drive footfall.

"Although retailers had a tougher time during August getting consumers to spend, the three-month rolling average for total sales was the best recorded since May and suggests a general improvement across the longer-term.

"Nevertheless, the trading environment remains incredibly challenging for retailers, especially for those selling food."

David McCorquodale, head of retail at KPMG, said: "High street sales in Scotland were weak on all fronts during August, with very little glimmer amidst the gloom.

"The usual culprit to blame for poor sales - the weather - was not at fault this month as both temperatures and sunshine hours were at or above average for the month."