British retail spending grew 1.5% annually in October, up from 1.3% in September and marking the strongest increase since June, the British Retail Consortium said. Like-for-like sales rose 1.1%, just below the 1.2% market forecast but above September’s 1.0% increase. Food sales climbed 3.2%, while non-food sales were flat as consumers faced higher household costs, rising petrol prices, uncertainty ahead of the government’s Budget and caution before Black Friday promotions. BRC CEO Helen Dickinson said cupboard staples rose modestly after the government advised households to stock up for emergencies. Barclays’ broader card-spending measure increased 2.3% annually, up from 2.0% in September and its strongest growth since July 2025. Essential spending rose 3.1%, driven by a 22.7% increase in fuel spending, while non-essential spending grew 1.9%. Consumer confidence remained subdued, with Barclays’ gauge showing the least optimism about the UK economy since April. Entertainment spending reached its strongest level since September 2024 after Glastonbury festival tickets went on sale.