Retail sales up slightly

Retail sales increased slightly in the year to June, according to figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) today.

However, if motor sales are excluded, retail sales fell by 4.2% in the 12 months to June of this year.

Overall sales rose by 0.2% in June when compared with the same time last year. On a monthly basis, sales were up 1.1%.

The highest jump was in motor sales, electrical goods and furniture and lighting, whilst fuel, hardware, paints and glass all experienced the biggest drops.

The Irish Small & Medium Enterprises Association (ISME) reacted negatively to the figures however, calling for the immediate introduction of a Retail Strategy Group, to implement policies that will address the "dramatic slide in retail sales".

"Today’s figures confirm that the retail sector is in ‘meltdown’ with thousands of businesses in dire straits," said ISME chief executive Mark Fielding. "With retail sales consistently falling since 2007 and excessive costs being imposed on the sector, it is no surprise that the vast majority of retailers are struggling."

Retail Excellence Ireland chief executive officer said: "These sales figures for Q2 2011 show clearly the weak state of the domestic economy. June was the 40th consecutive month of declining sales for the retail industry."

"Retail sales are still very volatile, a fact borne out by the CSO’s figures for June and indeed by the overall very poor Q2 results for retail.

"June was primarily undermined by poor weather and weakened consumer sentiment. Irish consumers’ confidence remains at low levels as a result of serious concern over interest rate increases, looming taxes and job insecurity."