Shops offering discounts to tempt hard-hit customers

Shops are trying to tempt customers back by offering up promotions as July’s wet weather has hit businesses. 

Clothing and shoe sales declined last month – usually, a busy month for fashion, as shoppers held back from buying their summer clothes. 

But a report on retail sales said there was a “big rise” in offers designed to persuade shoppers back. 

On top of the wet weather, the cost of living crisis and rising interest rates have also impacted customer spending. 

“We are starting to see a big rise in the number of promotions that retailers are putting in place in order to get shoppers through the door, as they battle to keep market share,” said Paul Martin, UK head of retail at consultancy firm KPMG.

“Price-conscious consumers are shopping more carefully, more aware of where bargains can be found and what they are getting for their money.”