Homeware sales were down towards the end of July on the high street, which was a complete contrast to the week before when the category was the top performer.

According to the latest BDO High Street Sales Tracker, total like-for-like (LFL) sales fell by 0.42% for the week ending 30 July 2023.

Homeware total LFLs dropped by -3.75% from an already negative base of -0.95% for the same week last year, denoting the category’s twenty-second negative result so far in 2023.

Store sales for homeware grew by +4.88% from a base of +2.38% for the same week last year, marking the category’s twenty-fourth positive result so far in 2023.

Total in-store LFL sales were up by +5.08% from a base of +23.53% for the same week last year. Total non-store LFL sales diminished by -5.44% from a positive base of +6.93% for the same week last year.

Commenting on the results, BDO said: “While in-store sales remained healthy this week, total LFL sales were pulled down by negative non-store results.

“During the final week of July, the UK saw unsettled weather characterised by a mix of rain and cloud, with spells of scattered sunshine. The same week last year bright and sunny weather with occasional heavy clouds and light showers.”

Overall footfall increased by +1.5% compared to the corresponding week last year. Footfall in shopping centres grew by +3.7% as retail parks saw an improvement of +2.3%, while footfall growth on the high street was completely flat.