Retail turnover up slightly

In July 2006, retailers generated nearly 2 percent more turnover than in the same month of 2005. Retail prices in July were up by almost 1 percent on twelve months earlier. The growth in turnover was negatively affected by a difference in the shopping day patterns between July 2006 and July 2005. After a first correction for this effect, turnover was over 4 percent higher than in July 2005.

In the first seven months of 2006, retail turnover increased by almost 6 percent compared to the same period in 2005. This signifies a strong recovery, after a three year period with declining sales.

Turnover in food shops was more than 1 percent higher than in July 2005. Prices were more than 1 percent higher than twelve months previously. Turnover in the food sector was 4 percent higher in the first seven months of 2006.

In July turnover in non-food increased by almost 2 percent. Here prices were almost 0.5 percent higher. Following substantial turnover increases in the first half of this year, shops selling home furnishings and consumer electronics had lower turnover levels in July. However, the weather in July was extremely warm. Turnover in the non-food sector was 7 percent higher in the first seven months of 2006.

Volume changes in retail turnover are a first indication of volume changes in household consumption expenditure. About one third of total domestic consumption expenditure consists of goods purchased in retail outlets.

Turnover in retail trade