New figures released by the British Independent Retail Association (bira) shows trading growth returned to just the right side of zero in the January to March period compared to the same months in 2015.
Just 52% of members reported increased turnover and 48% logged declines. The balance of growth was a tiny +0.53%. But this was a big improvement on the last quarter of 201, when 43% had gained, 57% lost out and the average drop had been 2.35%. As industry sources have been reporting shop prices falling for nearly three years now - and by about 3% a year - bira representatives are calling this "something of an achievement."

Seven of the eleven product sectors tracked grew, whereas last time seven of eleven had lost out. Fashion and department stores continue to be challenged, while the big-ticket items in furniture, floorcoverings and beds continue to thrive.

Interestingly, although the results show improvement, confidence has taken a major hit and where only 30% were anxious about the year ahead in January, 45% are now.