Figures from tax refund specialist Global Blue show that in September sales fell by -2% compared to the same month in 2013, fuelled by sharp declines from Russians, Nigerians and UAE nationals (see graph).

 

During the month, Russian spending collapsed by -31% (see table for details and click to enlarge) as ongoing economic and political strife continue to affect the market, producing average per head spending of £594 ($955).

 

Sales to Nigerians – whose home country was declared Ebola-free today – were down by -17% with average spending now at £508 ($817). Pound sterling has gains strongly against the Nigerian Naira since March 2013 which has affected spending.

 

Meanwhile, UAE spending – traditionally important to the UK – has also fallen in double digits (-14%) although spending per head remains high at £1,199 ($1,930).

 

CHINA & HONG KONG RAMP UP

More positive news came from two other top 10 markets: visitors from China and Hong Kong grew by +10% and +21% respectively which was the highest growth for the past six months for both of these nations.

 

“The growth was seen following the start of the new academic year, as families came to settle in the new influx of students starting at UK schools and universities,” says Global Blue. Some 26% of international students in the UK are now from China (source: UCAS). Average spending per transaction from visitors from China and Hong Kong reached £668 and £639 respectively. Malaysia was the only other top 10 nationality to record double-digit growth (at +10%).

 

Note: Global Blue data are based on tax refund figures from foreign shoppers applying for tax refunds who have primarily shopped in the domestic market.