Retail sector thriving

Dutch retailers realised a 6 percent higher turnover in March 2007 than in March 2006. Prices were almost 2 percent higher than in the same month last year and turnover volume rose by over 4 percent.

The increase in turnover clearly exceeded the growth rate in January and February, when turnover grew by 3 and almost 4 percent respectively, compared to the same period one year previously. The shopping day pattern in March this year was more favourable than in March 2006. Without this stimulating effect, turnover growth is estimated at 5 percent.

Mail order and other on-line services achieved a sizeable turnover increase. These retailers realised a 12 percent higher turnover than in March 2006.

Most retail articles, however, are sold in regular shops, Altogether, they account for 95 percent of all retail sales. Turnover of non-food shops was almost 8 percent higher in March than in the same month last year. The volume of sales grew by almost 6 percent, prices were 2 percent higher. In the food sector, turnover rose by 3 percent relative to 2006. Prices were 1 percent higher.

Turnover in retail trade