Almost half (47 per cent) of retailers and suppliers in the UK single out weather conditions as being one of the top three external factors driving consumer demand. 

This is according to the findings of new research from the Met Office, which also indicated that a third (32 per cent) do not use weather data in their supply chain. 

With a further 17 per cent reliant on free weather data services, this points to an area of supply chain management that retailers could be taking a much more proactive approach to. 

Retail business manager for the Met Office Barbara Napiorkowska-Dickson said the notoriously changeable weather of the UK has a significant impact on performance and ability. 

"If they miscalculate this, retailers risk losing millions through incorrect stock levels and disappointed customers. It can also impact the costs and efficiencies of the whole supply chain," Ms Napiorkowska-Dickson commented.