Sales volumes in July were 0.8 per cent higher than the previous month, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. The fall was in stark contrast to a 0.2 per cent fall expected by the City, and the record 3.9 per cent fall reported in June.
The biggest contribution to July's rise was a 2.8 per cent rise for `other stores', which includes sales of computer games and mobile phones. Clothing and shoe shops also saw a 1.5 per cent improvement.
Food sales were 0.3 per cent ahead in July. The ONS said there was evidence of growth in the discount food sector - which includes chains such as Aldi and Lidl. This is consistent with recent supermarket industry data which showed the discount sector enjoying its highest market share on record.
Household goods shops, which include furniture and electricals, rose 1.6 per cent.
Sales for non-store retailing and repair, including internet and mail order, were 0.1 per cent down.
The only other sector showing a decrease was non-specialised stores - mainly department stores - which saw volumes fall 2.6 per cent last month.
Compared with July last year, retail sales volumes were 2.1 per cent ahead, the ONS said - 3.8 per cent higher by value at £5.2bn.
The rise contrasts with data from the British Retail Consortium for July, which showed a 0.9 per cent annual drop. But the data will add to uncertainty as to the Bank of England's next interest rate decision.
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