Eurozone Retail Sales Experience Growth

In a positive turn of events, retail trade in both the euro area and the European Union saw a 0.3% increase in June compared to the previous month, as reported by Eurostat in its preliminary findings. This growth is complemented by a 3.1% year-over-year increase in calendar-adjusted retail sales across both regions.

Detailed Breakdown of Retail Sales

The volume of retail sales for food, drinks, and tobacco rose by 0.2% monthly in the euro area and the EU. Meanwhile, non-food products experienced a more significant uptick, with sales increasing by 0.6% in both areas. Specialized stores selling automotive fuel also reported growth, with a 0.4% increase in the euro area and a 0.6% rise in the EU.

Regional Highlights and Lowlights

Croatia led the charge with the most substantial month-over-month increase, boasting a 3.6% jump in retail sales. Sweden and Malta followed closely with increases of 2.6% and 2.2%, respectively. Conversely, France faced the steepest decline, with retail sales dropping by 0.9%. Poland and Slovenia also saw decreases, with sales volumes falling by 0.8% and 0.7%, respectively.