UK discretionary retail sales recorded their weakest April performance in a decade outside the pandemic, as consumer spending remained subdued despite seasonal expectations of a spring uplift.

Data from BDO show like-for-like sales across fashion, homewares and lifestyle categories fell by 1.6 per cent compared with the same month last year. It marks the first time since 2018 — excluding the Covid-19 period — that all three categories have simultaneously recorded a decline.

The figures point to a continued squeeze on discretionary spending as households contend with elevated living costs. In-store sales were particularly affected, dropping 1.8 per cent against a positive base a year earlier, extending a run of eight consecutive months in which retail growth has lagged inflation.

Seasonal factors offered little relief. Warmer weather, which typically boosts footfall and demand for new spring and summer ranges, failed to translate into stronger trading. Shopper numbers declined steadily through the month, with footfall down in each of the first three weeks.

Sophie Michael, head of retail and wholesale at BDO, said the results were striking given April’s usual importance for the sector. “It’s hard to overstate how difficult the month has been,” she said, noting that the last comparable decline outside the pandemic occurred in 2016, when severe weather disrupted trading.

The current downturn reflects a more persistent shift in consumer behaviour. Rising costs for essentials — including food, fuel and energy — are continuing to absorb a greater share of household income, leaving less available for non-essential purchases.

As a result, categories such as fashion and homewares are experiencing a sustained pullback. The data suggest that, even during periods of favourable weather, consumers remain cautious, prioritising everyday spending over discretionary items.

BDO said there is little indication of a near-term recovery, with the outlook for retailers remaining challenging. Businesses are likely to face continued pressure in the months ahead as cost-of-living constraints weigh on demand and limit the scope for a seasonal rebound.