Total sales increased by 1.9% compared to October 2024, the best performance since April. Once adjusted for inflation, sales saw real-term growth of 1.0%.

The figures, covering the four weeks to 1 November 2025, showed food sales leading the growth with a 2.7% increase. Non-food sales also rose by 1.3%, driven by strong performance in homeware, furniture, and early festive purchases such as decorations.

However, David Lonsdale, Director of the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC), reported a mixed picture. Clothing retailers faced challenges selling winter items due to variable weather, and electrical goods sales “underwhelmed”, suggesting consumers may be holding back for Black Friday discounts.

Despite the recent growth, Mr Lonsdale warned of “twin threats” facing the sector. He highlighted that “shaky” consumer confidence could be further damaged by “mooted increases in personal taxation”, which would reduce discretionary spending.

Secondly, he pointed to an “absence of any plan” to lower business rates in Scotland, while competitors in England and Wales are set to receive permanent cuts from April. Mr Lonsdale cautioned this disparity could harm commercial investment and the health of Scottish high streets.

Looking ahead, retailers are focusing on the vital Black Friday and Christmas periods. Linda Ellett, UK head of consumer, retail & leisure, at KPMG, noted that most shoppers are considering Black Friday purchases and that artificial intelligence will play a growing role in how consumers find offers, presenting a new opportunity for tech-savvy retailers.