The Confederation of British Industry's retail sales gauge for the UK fell sharply to -46 in June 2025 from -27 in May, marking the ninth consecutive monthly decline and well below forecasts of -32. A further drop is expected in July (-49%). Sales for the time of year were also seen as poor (-37%), and are forecast to stay below seasonal norms next month (-38%). Online sales rose slightly (+6%), though slower than May’s growth, and are expected to grow modestly again in July (+8%). Wholesale sales fell year-on-year (-34%), but at a slower rate than in May, while motor trade sales also declined (-37%). Orders placed with suppliers dropped at the fastest pace since December 2023 (-51%) and are expected to fall further (-53%). Stock levels in relation to expected demand rose to +26%, above the long-run average.