Volume of retail trade down by 0.6% in euro area

In July 2019 compared with June 2019, the seasonally adjusted volume of retail trade fell by 0.6% in the euro area (EA19) and by 0.5% in the EU28, according to estimates from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.

In June 2019, the retail trade volume increased by 1.2% in the euro area and by 1.3% in the EU28. In July 2019 compared with July 2018, the calendar adjusted retail sales index increased by 2.2% in the euro area and by 2.6% in the EU28.

Montly comparison

In the euro area in July 2019, compared with June 2019, the volume of retail trade decreased by 1.0% for non-food products and by 0.3% for food, drinks and tobacco, while automotive fuels remained unchanged. In the EU28, the retail trade volume decreased by 0.7% for non-food products and by 0.3% for food, drinks and tobacco, while automotive fuels remained unchanged.

Among Member States for which data are available, the largest decreases in the total retail trade volume were registered in Croatia (-3.3%), Germany (-2.2%) and Belgium (-1.4%). The highest increases were observed in Ireland (+1.9%), Slovenia (+1.2%), Bulgaria and Malta (both +1.0%).

Annual comparison

In the euro area in July 2019, compared with July 2018, the volume of retail trade increased by 2.8% for non-food products, by 2.0% for automotive fuel and by 1.3% for food, drinks and tobacco.

In the EU28, the retail trade volume increased by 3.7% for non-food products, by 2.4% for automotive fuel, and by 1.2% for food, drinks and tobacco.

Among Member States for which data are available, the highest yearly increases in the total retail trade volume were registered in Romania (+7.5%), Malta (+6.5%), Hungary and Slovenia (both +6.3%). The only decrease was observed in Slovakia (-0.8%).