Period covered: August 21Published: September 01, 2021Read time: 1min

Shop Price Index

Higher prices loom

  • Dr. Liliana Danila avatar
    Dr. Liliana Danila Economist | BRC Alumni

Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive, British Retail Consortium:

While it is good news that overall retail prices fell year on year, there was a slight rise in prices on the previous month. There are some modest indications that rising costs are starting to filter through into product prices. Some of the Non-Food categories, such as electricals, saw sharp rises in inflation compared to last year, owing to global issues from delayed shipping and shortages of microchips. Food retailers are fighting to keep their prices down as far as possible. But mounting pressures – from rising commodity and shipping costs as well as Brexit-related red tape, mean this will not be sustainable for much longer, and Food price rises are likely in the coming months.Low prices are already under threat, and now the HGV driver shortage has created an additional problem with a shortfall of 90,000 drivers. Disruption has been limited so far, but in the run up to Christmas the situation could get worse, and customers may see reduced choice and increased prices for their favourite products and presents. The Government must act swiftly and rapidly increase the number of HGV driving tests taking place, provide temporary visas for EU drivers, and make changes on how HGV driver training can be funded. Without Government action, it will be the British consumers who will pay the price.

Mike Watkins, Head of Retailer and Business Insight, NielsenIQ:

The good news for shoppers is that shop price inflation remains below consumer price inflation and any moderate increases in prices are being driven by wider economic conditions and seasonal supply changes. With shoppers now returning from their summer holidays many will be reviewing their household budgets. So the next few months will be an important time for retailers to keep prices stable by absorbing as much of any increase in their supply chain costs as possible.

TO DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT PLEASE SIGN IN

Only members and associate members can access this exclusive insight.