Retailers are increasing prices at the fastest rate since 1990, according to industry figures.
A CBI survey also found that sales were boosted by consumers starting Christmas shopping early because of concerns about supply disruptions.
The report found that during November, clothing stores and department stores saw “huge volatility”.
The numbers, while giving cheer to the high streets, also represent the latest sign of households facing bigger spending after energy and fuel bills. Rising data pushed inflation to a decade-high last month.
In the three months to November, the balance of retailers reporting higher selling prices stood at +77 percent, according to CBI.
Prices are expected to rise at a similar rate over the next month, the survey added.
Retailers appear to be facing growing cost pressure as they grapple with economy-wide issues like labor shortages and supply chain woes.
Meanwhile, November sales were better than expected for the time of year at their highest levels since September 2015.
The poll of 51 major retailers also showed that year-over-year retail sales growth accelerated this month but internet sales fell for the first time on survey records since 2001.
However, that compares with last year’s period when COVID-19 restrictions forced shoppers to stay away from the high streets and to their computers and mobile devices.
There are also signs that retailers’ efforts to build stock availability in the face of supply chain concerns are paying off, with a “widely enough” inventory measure for the first time. first after six months when they no longer have much demand.
“Christmas seems to have come early for retailers, with clothing and department stores in particular seeing a huge increase in volume,” said CBI chief economist Ben Jones. Sales in November.
“It appears that reports of supply chain disruptions have spurred consumers to start their Christmas shopping early.
“And there are encouraging signs that retailers’ efforts to help avoid any disappointment during the festive season may be paying off, with stocks stocking up for the first time in seven months.
“Overall, retailers are becoming more optimistic, with job growth and investment intentions both strong.
“However, cost pressures remain a very real concern, with selling prices rising at their fastest rate since 1990.”
The figures come after the latest official data showed retail sales rose in October for the first time in six months.
Bank of England officials will closely watch for signs of surging demand as they weigh whether to raise interest rates before Christmas when they meet next month.
