SCOTTISH retail sales fell at the fastest rate for 12 years in January, according to research that will heighten fears the country could slip back into recession.
SCOTTISH retail sales fell at the fastest rate for 12 years in January, according to research that will heighten fears the country could slip back into recession.
Spending dip: Although hit by the downturn, retailers such as John Lewis have been helped by robust sales of household goods. Picture: Peter Macdiarmid
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MARK WILLIAMSON
The Scottish Retail Consortium reported that total spending fell by 1.5% annually in January as shoppers tightened their belts in response to concerns about the outlook for 2012.
The latest retail sales figures from the consortium and KPMG show that consumers slashed spending on big ticket items such as fitted kitchens and TVs last month. The findings indicate that people are focusing on buying items they regard as essentials.
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