Retail sees best performance since before the recession

The retail sector is showing signs of a bounce-back after posting its best performance since before the recession in the third quarter of this year.

Retail Excellence Ireland said sales in the three months to the end of September topped €3.3bn across 4,000 stores in Ireland.

That figure is 5.5% up on the same period last year and the best quarterly performance since early 2007.

Chief executive of Retail Excellence Ireland David Fitzsimons said most sales categories were enjoying renewed growth.

"Pop beverage sales are up over 13% which is a great indicator of footfall and general consumer activity," he said.

"We're delighted too that home categories are up (with) a bit of liquidity back in the home market. That sector was harshly hit over the last eight years."