UK retail sales exceeded expectations in November

The Financial Times reported that UK retail sales grew substantially in November, due to Black Friday attracting shoppers to the high street.

The amount of items purchased rose by 1.4% in November from October, according to the Office for National Statistics.

“Retailers reported strong growth on the month due to Black Friday promotions in November, which continues the shifting pattern in consumer spending to sales occurring earlier in the year,” the ONS said.