After the hottest June since 1976, major retailers enjoyed the largest annual revenue rise for four years. Research firm Nielsen reported that revenue rose by 4% compared to June the previous year. Sales of hand-held ice-cream rose by 24% as people took advantage of the good weather. Also, more people dined al fresco leading to a 11% boost in sales of quiche. Commenting on the boost in sales Mike Watkins, Nielsen's UK head of retailer and business insight said "the early summer weather gave supermarkets a much-needed shot in the arm."