Retail sales declined by all main measures in April, reflecting a continued downward trend in consumer activity that has been in evidence since the middle of 2010.
Figures from the Central Statistics Office show that seasonally-adjusted core retail sales (excluding the volatile motor trade) fell by 1.8 per cent on March. This was the largest monthly fall since January. By value, sales fell 1.6 per cent in April. That was the largest monthly decline since May of last year.
Lobby group Retail Excellence Ireland said that poor weather conditions had slowed sales in April. The fact that Mother’s Day occurred in March had further sharpened the decline. “Retail owners are hoping to see more favourable sales levels over the coming weeks and months,” Retail Excellence Ireland chief executive David Fitzsimons said.
Sales of hardware, paints and glass fell most sharply in April (down 6.2 per cent); followed by sales in department stores (down 3.6 per cent); clothing, footwear and textiles (down 2.9 per cent); and the motor trade (down 2.6 per cent).
Increases were recorded in sales of fuel (up 0.5 per cent); electrical goods (0.4 per cent); and other goods (up 1.7 per cent).
Small business group Isme said the figures were “shocking”, and confirmed that consumers were still cutting back when it came to spending in shops.
“More than three-quarters of retailers are stating that the very viability of their business is under threat, with a third of them expecting to reduce staff in the next year,” said Isme chief executive Mark Fielding.
