Hardware and DIY retailers reported the strongest sales growth since November 2013, up 61% in the year to April, according to the Confederation of British Industry's (CBI) latest Distributive Trades Survey.
The survey of 122 firms revealed that orders across the retail industry as a whole fell in the year to April, as overall growth was held back by a fall in the grocers' sector. However, most retail sub-sectors, including DIY, hardware and furniture retailers, reported rising sales volumes, with figures predicted to rise strongly next month and expectations highest since May 2014.

52% of wholesalers also reported sales volumes were up on last year, while online sales grew ahead of expectations, up 55%.

CBI DTS chairman and Asda chief customer officer Barry Williams said of the latest survey: "With the mixed news we've been seeing from the high street recently, it's perhaps not surprising that retailers have reported varied fortunes this month.

"A healthier picture in furnishing and DIY sectors - driven by the desire by customers to spruce up their homes - contrasts with a fall in sales at shoe shops, grocers and department stores.

"With shopping habits changing so dramatically in the last few years underlying consumer confidence is hard to read, but both retailers and wholesalers are optimistic there will be a spring in their customers' steps, and therefore their sales, in the near future."