There were two types of fans “keeping up” the retail sales statistics during July 2018, as warm World Cup supporters shopped in food stores – and picked up a few coolers on the way home. Phil Mullis, Partner and Head of Retail and Wholesale at top-20 UK accountancy firm, Wilkins Kennedy, said: “Retail sales for July 2018 have been quite good, which is surprising given the rather dull figures in June. “The warm weather has brought more people outdoors enjoying their summer barbeques, so they have been spending out in the grocery sector. Chances are, with the World Cup on television and England doing so well, even more celebrations were had that contributed overall to the increase in the amount bought, particularly in the grocery sector.