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In August, the increase in retail sales was mostly influenced by the stores selling manufactured goods

News
Posted on 1 October 2013, 11:00
According to Statistics Estonia, in August 2013 compared to August of the previous year, the retail sales of goods of retail trade enterprises increased 6% at constant prices. The increase in sales was mostly influenced by the stores selling manufactured goods, where retail sales increased 12%.

In August 2013, the retail sales of goods of retail trade enterprises were 410.6 million euros, which means 319 euros per inhabitant. The sales increased in all economic activities. The retail sales of second-hand goods in stores and non-store retail sale (stalls, markets, direct sale) increased the most – three quarters (77%) compared to August of the previous year. The sales increase in these stores does not significantly influence the retail sales of goods of retail trade enterprises, because the share of this economic activity is very small – 1.7% in August 2013. In August, a higher than average increase occurred in stores selling household goods and appliances, hardware and building materials (20% growth) and in other specialized stores, such as stores selling computers and their accessories, photography supplies, books, sports equipment, games and toys, etc. (12% growth).

Retail sales in grocery stores have increased steadily by 3–4% during the recent months.

In August, the stable growth in these stores continued and their retail sales increased 3% compared to same month of the previous year.

The retail sales of automotive fuel increased 2% at constant prices compared to August 2012.

Compared to the previous month, in August the retail sales in retail trade enterprises decreased 1% at constant prices. According to the seasonally and working-day adjusted data, the retail sales increased one percent. During the eight months (January–August) of 2013, the retail sales in retail trade enterprises increased 5% at constant prices compared to the corresponding period of the previous year.

In August the turnover of retail trade enterprises was 487.1 million euros, with the retail sales of goods accounting for 84% of this. Compared to August 2012, the turnover increased by 4% at current prices. Compared to the previous month, this indicator decreased 1%.

Retail sales volume index of retail trade enterprises and its trend, January 2003 – August 2013 (2010 = 100)

Diagram: Retail sales volume index of retail trade enterprises and its trend, January 2003 – August 2013 (2010 = 100)