How has a summer of heatwaves impacted bricks-and-mortar retail?

It’s been a record breaking summer for hot weather in the UK, with the soaring temperatures inevitably having a knock-on effect on businesses.
The picture from within the retail industry has been mixed. While the hot weather deterred some shoppers from the high street, supermarket revenues fared well, alongside sales of alcoholic drinks and beverages, as consumers enjoyed outdoor picnics, barbecues and social gatherings.
The latest Office for National Statistics retail sales figures reveal