In January the stable growth in retail sales continued

In January 2015, the retail sales of goods of retail trade enterprises were 373.9 million euros, which was 285 euros per inhabitant.

The retail sales in stores selling manufactured goods increased 8% compared to January 2014. Sales increased in most economic activities. Only the retail sales in stores selling textiles, clothing and footwear stayed at the same level as in January of the previous year. The retail sales via mail order or the Internet increased the most, with sales increasing nearly a fourth (24%). In January, a higher than average increase occurred also in stores selling second-hand goods and in non-store retail sale (stalls, markets, direct sale) (18% growth) and in other specialised stores, such as stores selling computers and their accessories, photography supplies, books, sports equipment, games and toys etc. (16% growth).

The retail sales in grocery stores increased 4% compared to January 2014. Compared with December, the retail sales growth in these stores accelerated slightly, partly influenced by the acceleration in the price decrease of food products. While in December 2014, the annual price decrease of food products was 0.4%, then this January it was 1.8%.

The retail sales of automotive fuel stayed at the same level as in January 2014.

Compared to the previous month, the retail sales in retail trade enterprises decreased almost by a fifth (19%) at constant prices in January. This is a usual fall following the Christmas and end-of-year sales in December. According to the seasonally and working-day adjusted data, the retail sales increased 2% compared to the previous month.

In January, the turnover of retail trade enterprises was 439.5 million euros, out of which the retail sales of goods accounted for 85%. Compared to January 2014, the turnover increased by 2% at constant prices. Compared to the previous month, this indicator decreased 19%.

The statistics are based on the report „Turnover“, the deadline of which was 15.02.2015, and on the VAT declaration data from the Estonian Tax and Customs Board. Statistics Estonia published the monthly summary in ten working days.