Slight rise in retail sales volumes in March

The volume of retail sales volume increased 0.2 % in March comparied to the previous month, new figures from the Central Statistics Office reveal.

However there was an annual decrease of 1%.

Among the main contributors to the monthly increase were Motors (4.1%), Bars (3.5%), Non-Specialised Stores (0.7%) and Furniture and Lighting (0.7%).

Monthly decreases were recorded in Other Retail Sales (-4.9%), Electrical Goods (-4.2%) and Pharmaceuticals Medical & Cosmetic Articles (-1.6).

The value of retail sales increased by 0.6% in March 2012 when compared with February 2012 and there was an annual change of -0.4%.

Despite the increase, the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises association (ISME) said the retail trade was being ignored by Government.

“High costs, VAT increases and an ‘it’ll be alright on the night’ government attitude have led to consumer pessimism despite a slight increase in spending," said ISME Chief Executive Mark Fielding.

"Despite the importance of the sector, the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs ‘skirted around’ the sector and the ‘actions’ that were announced were so ‘milk and watery’ that they will have little or no effect on the sector.

"In order to protect and promote small and medium, owner managed, retailers and wholesalers the long awaited Retail Strategy Group should be initiated, with a goal to recreate a sustainable sector, adding value to the Economy and capable of employing over 15% of the Irish workforce," Mr Fielding added.