Retail Sales Index
Changing spending patterns saw retail sales in December 2022 fall marginally from November figures indicating the traditional Christmas rush has turned into more of a marathon than a sprint. Annualised figures (excl. motors) show a strong increase in sales values of 7.88% albeit a nominal increase in volumes of 0.16%. This reflects the ongoing price inflation which saw the cross over in the value and volume indexes last year. The data also shows a strong shift away from household and electrical which enjoyed a stellar performance during periods when other retail outlets were closed due to COVID restrictions.