Only 13% of c-store retailers think an economic recovery has started in the UK, although an additional 39% are optimistic that conditions will start to recover during this year, according to an exclusive survey commissioned by C-Store.

The poll of 100 retailers, conducted by HIM, found that only 9% of respondents were currently experiencing growing sales, with the majority reporting them as “steady”.

The survey also showed a clear North-South divide, with the majority of retailers in the North (54%) stating that the economy showed no signs of recovery - against 42% in the South. Only 8% of northern retailers said they had already experienced an economic recovery, compared with 18% in the South.

Shoppers’ spending habits were more consistent across the country, with 25% of retailers spread broadly equally in both the North and South saying that consumers were now spending more than when the recession first hit.

To see the full survey results, click here.