More job losses in retail predicted

There will be more job losses in the retail sector even as demand gradually improves, according to Isme.

The claim comes after the latest retail sales figures from the CSO showed no change between November and October.

There were fluctuations, with sales in clothing and footwear increasing 5.7% and department store sales recording a 4.2% increase. But these gains were offset by a fall in books, newspaper, and stationery sales, down 3.2%, and in the motor trade, down 2.5%.