Aim of this survey
The Monthly Business Survey – Retail Sales Index (RSI) is an important indicator of the progress of the economy. The information supplied is used to produce monthly estimates of the total retail sales in Great Britain. It is also used to help estimate consumer spending on retail goods and the output of the retail sector, both of which feed into the compilation of the UK National Accounts. The results are also used by the Bank of England and HM Treasury to inform decision-making by the government and in formulating financial policies.
What you need to know
To complete the survey, you will need the following information:
the total retail sales figures in pounds sterling, including Value Added Tax (VAT)
the amount of internet sales included in the retail sales figure
All information you provide is strictly confidential.
Survey information
Selection criteria: Great Britain trading businesses registered for VAT and/or Pay As You Earn (PAYE)
Population: approximately 181,500
Sample size: approximately 5,000
Frequency: monthly
Dispatch date: between the 20th and 25th of each month
Return-by date: between the 2nd and 6th of each month
Please note that the dispatch and return-by dates are a guide, they are subject to change due to national holidays and weekends.
Why you were selected
Your business has been selected from a directory of businesses in the UK, which are registered for VAT and/or PAYE or with Companies House. Your response ensures we represent your industry.
The RSI is conducted under the provisions of the Statistics of Trade Act 1947. Once selected, your business is legally obliged to comply. You cannot appeal your selection.
Why you have received this survey
We survey businesses of all sizes to ensure our statistics are representative of the UK economy. We select large businesses (those with 100 or more employees) for any relevant Office for National Statistics (ONS) business surveys because their information is so significant.
We select some small and medium businesses, usually for a set period of time, then replace them with other businesses from their industry. They are important to us as their trading patterns are often very different to large businesses.
How to complete this survey
Your letter explains how to submit your data using our online collection system. Please use your unique enrolment code to report your information.
If you need help
You can call us on 0300 1234 931. Please enter the three digit survey ID 023.
From outside the UK: +441633 810495.
If you would like to speak to someone in Welsh: 0300 1234 921.
Er mwyn gwneud cais am ffurflen Gymraeg: 0300 1234 921.