The fall in turnover in the non-food retail sector has slowed considerably, to a downturn of an average 0.6% in the first quarter compared with between 4% and 7% in recent years.

The figures from research agency GfK show that six of the 11 sectors surveyed booked an increase in turnover. These include bike retailers, DIY stores and the telecom sector.

The DIY sector showed the biggest increase, particularly in garden products. Turnover was up 5%.

Consumer electronics, entertainment and tourism are still showing a drop in turnover, GfK says.

The economic recovery and an increase in consumer confidence account for the improvement.

Consumer confidence recovered slightly in February with the index now standing at -10 compared with the all-time low of -37 last summer.