Wintry weather has negative effect on retail turnover

Retail turnover was nearly 1 percent higher in December 2010 than in December 2009. In November, turnover still grew by nearly 5 percent. The harsh weather conditions in December made a trip to the shops more difficult than usual. December’s turnover growth was also affected by a more favourable shopping-day pattern. After a rough correction for this effect, the retail sector faced a turnover loss of 1 percent. Retail prices were 2 percent up on twelve months previously.

The non-food sector faced nearly 3 percent turnover loss in December relative to December 2009 after having achieved excellent results in November. Turnover losses were spread across the entire sector. Home furnishing shops faced a 5 percent turnover loss. Turnover generated by clothing shops also declined considerably.

Turnover in the food sector, on the other hand, grew by more than 3 percent. The sector benefited notably from the more favourable shopping day pattern. Supermarket sales were 4 percent higher and specialised food shops realised 1 percent more turnover.

Online retailers performed well, in contrast to traditional shopkeepers. Turnover in this sector was no less than 13 percent higher than one year previously. Online retailers still contribute modestly to total retail turnover, but online selling is a rapidly growing industry.

Petrol stations achieved a turnover growth of more than 6 percent. They account for approximately one tent of total retail turnover.

Retail turnover

More figures can be found in dossier Business cycle.