Retail sales slump in June
Volume of retail sales decreased by 1.6% in June and 1.5% annually
Print1 August 2013
The volume of retail sales fell by 1.6% in June 2013 compared with May 2013 and there was a decrease of 1.5% in the annual figure, according to figures released today by the CSO. The value of retail sales was down 0.9% in June compared with May, while there was an annual decrease of 1.4%.
Excluding motor trades, the volume of retail sales decreased by 0.5% in June over with May 2013 and there was an increase of 1.1% in the annual figure. The sectors with the largest month-on-month volume increases were books, newspapers and stationery which were up 3.6%; bars, up 1.2% and electrical goods, up 1%. The sectors with the largest monthly decreases were furniture and lighting, down 12.3% and motor trades down 7.9%.
Responding to the figures, Retail Ireland said they reveal a "divergence of fortunes".
"Sales in supermarkets and petrol stations were up, and it is likely that the improved weather for some of the month and the increased sales in garden centres helped push the hardware category up by 8%," said director Stephen Lynam. "However, department stores, pharmacies, electrical outlets and booksellers all saw falls. The figures show how volatile sales are. The overall annual increase of sales in June came after three successive months of annual decline."
Chambers Ireland called on the government to implement improved measures to support the retail sector in the next budget. "Retail sales have remained relatively stable over the last couple of years but they will only begin to improve with increased support from the government in Budget 2014," said chief executive Ian Talbot. "Retailers in our once thriving town centres should be supported by a rates reduction for companies located within town and city centres, which provide much needed employment and contribute to the quality of life in these areas. Providing improved support for retailers through measures such as this and more will increase job creation and retention and improve consumer confidence."
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