Ian Geddes, head of retail at Deloitte, says that last summer's strong retail performance has been "a tough act to follow", so shops have done especially well in July, without the help of a football World Cup or royal wedding.
He noted that the most striking rise in sales was in online shopping. However, he warned that High Streets remain under pressure and sales could slow down for the rest of the summer as discounting starts before the end of the season.
“Brexit uncertainty could also continue to impact overall consumer confidence and household expenditure for the time being," said Mr Geddes.
"The opportunity for retailers in the long-term is through investment in growing their digital sales and transforming their in-store experiences, be it hosting fitness classes or opening nail bars.”