Like-for-like retail revenue grew just +0.6% last month compared to 2025, says new data from BDO’s High Street Sales Tracker, as the UK’s June heatwave stifled sales.

With High Street sales tracking substantially below inflation, overall volumes were down last month, with lifestyle and fashion categories the hardest hit, its data suggests. Sales in the lifestyle category fell by -0.3% last in June, and fashion sales grew by just +0.7% year-on-year.

“Retailers had to contend with the effects of the very hot weather, with extreme weather conditions significantly impact footfall,” said Sophie Michael, Head of Retail and Wholesale at BDO. 

Data released last week by Sensormatic Solutions showed that store visits dipped as the heatwave took hold, with footfall declining to its lowest point on 24 Jun, down -10.2% year-on-year.

“With more heat waves predicted in the coming weeks, retailers will be concerned that persistent hot weather throughout the summer could become a regular drag on sales in stores,” Michael added.

BDO’s tracker also suggested that the World Cup has yet to materially boost retail performance, despite the hype and expectations around the tournament.

“The widely held expectation is often that big sporting events like the World Cup will encourage consumers to start splashing the cash, but our data shows the opposite,” Michael commented. Looking back to the 2018 World Cup, BDO figures revealed sales growth was also almost flat at +0.4% in the month the tournament started.

“The World Cup may provide a welcome catalyst for increased spending in hospitality, but these events often come at the expense of other discretionary retail sectors, as consumers redirect their purse to leisure spending while watching games,” she added.