Getty ImagesPeople starting buying Christmas food early last month as they sought to spread the cost of the festive season, official figures indicate.
Sales volumes at food stores rose by 0.9% in November, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
However, sales overall fell by 0.4% as shoppers remained under pressure as the cost of living continues to rise.
Online sales also fell, with Black Friday promotions failing to lift the sector, the ONS said.
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