In February, the growth in retail sales accelerated

In February 2015, the retail sales of goods of retail trade enterprises were 350.9 million euros, which was 267 euros per inhabitant.

The growth of retail sales in stores selling manufactured goods accelerated significantly compared to the previous months. In the previous three months (November–January), the retail sales of those stores showed a stable 7–8% growth year over year, whereas in February the growth was 13%. The acceleration of retail sales growth in stores selling manufactured goods was partly influenced by the very low reference base of February of the previous year.

In February, the retail sales via mail order or the Internet increased the most, with sales increasing 41% compared to February 2014. A higher than average increase occurred also in other specialised stores, such as stores selling computers and their accessories, photography supplies, books, sports equipment, games and toys etc. (20% growth) and in stores selling second-hand goods and in non-store retail sale (stalls, markets, direct sale) (19% growth).

The retail sales in grocery stores have been rather stable in recent months. In February, the retail sales of these stores increased 4% compared to February of the previous year.

The retail sales of automotive fuel increased 6% at constant prices compared to February 2014.

Compared to January, in February, the retail sales in retail trade enterprises decreased 7% at constant prices. According to the seasonally and working-day adjusted data, the retail sales stayed at the same level compared to the previous month.

The statistics are based on the questionnaire “Turnover”, the deadline of which was 15 March 2015, and on VAT declaration data from the Estonian Tax and Customs Board. Statistics Estonia published the monthly summary in 11 working days.