UK retail sales pick up as shoppers seek picnic and barbecue food

The total amount spent on food rose 2.9% in the three months to the end of August, the BRC and KPMG said. Photograph: serts/Getty Images

Warmer weather lifted retail sales growth in the UK last month as shoppers grabbed grub for picnics and barbecues and kitted out their wardrobes with new outfits.

The turnaround was driven by food and the total amount spent in shops rose 2.9% in the three months to the end of August, up from 2.6% reported the month before.