Irish retail sales fell 0.2 per cent in February, again dragged lower by both new and used car sales, but the rate of decline has slowed significantly. Books, newspapers and stationery saw the largest monthly volume decreases, with sales down 6.2 per cent. The food, beverage and tobacco category saw sales fall 3.9 per cent, while the volume of sales in the motor industry fell 3.6 per cent in the month. If motor trades are excluded there was a monthly increase of 0.5 per cent and an increase of 3.8 per cent compared to February 2017. While “core” retail sales are anticipated to be higher this year, Mr McQuaid suggests the increase in headline retail sales will likely be lower than 2017.

Source: The Irish Times March 28, 2018 10:38 UTC