Australian Wool Innovation Limited reported that UK's December retail sales volume showed a continuation in general sales growth seen since the summer.
Sales picked up strongly in the week before Christmas and continued in the first two days of post Christmas sales. The cold weather and post Christmas discounting assisted clothing sales which saw sales volume rise solidly in December 2005, compared with December 2004.
It stated that the picture changed in January. The retail sales were the weakest since their survey began a decade ago. Even though the UK trend in clothing sales has shown signs of slow improvement, difficult conditions persist as the reality of the discount-driven market returns.
By category, womenswear sales during January outperformed menswear, with persistent cold weather clearing out winter stock. Independent retailers suggest a return to smarter womenswear pieces and a move towards tailored men's separates such as jackets and trousers.
Reports that the UK wool textile industry has seen a marginal recovery in order levels compared with December have been overshadowed by the still significant numbers reporting below normal trading.
Australian Wool Innovation Limited
marketing@alchempro.com
