Inflation dropped for groceries and clothing during June, thanks to falling energy prices and a stronger pound, according to the latest consumer price inflation figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The government department found inflation for food and non-alcoholic beverages dipped 0.2% to 1.5% compared to the previous month.
The figure for clothing and footwear was down 1.2% on May to 1.6%, with the drop even steeper for children’s clothes.
However, prices rose marginally for furniture and household equipment, increasing from -1.8% in May to -1.6% in June.
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Meanwhile, the organisation reported the rate for miscellaneous goods fell from 3.1% to 2.9%.
Headline inflation rates remained at 2.0% for the period, the ONS reported.
Responding to the figures, British Retail Consortium (BRC) director of insight Kris Hamer said: ” Falling energy prices and a stronger pound combined with fierce competition between retailers are helping to bring down prices for many goods, including essential items like pasta and margarine.”
The trade association exec added: “While we should celebrate the end of high inflation, which has dogged the UK for two years, many of the factors that caused it lurk in the background.
“Energy prices have fallen from peak, but the UK’s reliance on imported energy remains a vulnerability. Similarly, the impact of climate change on harvests at home and abroad, as well as rising geopolitical tensions, could increase commodity prices and translate into higher inflation in the future.”
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