Big jump in retail sales

WEDNESDAY, SEP. 19: Retailers had a reason to smile in July, the volume of sales were up 4.3 per cent, which was the largest increase in over four years.

The total value was up 6.2 per cent but after adjusted for inflation, the volume was 4.3 per cent according to the report from the Department of Statistics.

Overseas purchases by residents were down 1.9 per cent.

There were 26 shopping days in July 2012, two more than the previous July.

A spike in car sales in July was unable to save jobs at HWP this week. Motor vehicle sales rose 64.2 per cent as 39 more cars and 58 more motorcycles were sold than the previous July. This marked the first increase in sales since March 2010.

Sales receipts for The Buildings Material Sector were up 7.0 with retailers saying there was higher demand associated with residential construction and renovation.

Apparel stores were up 1.3 per cent in July as customers too advantage of discount sales events.

Food stores sales were up 5 per cent and liquor stores were up thanks in part to a 4.5 per cent rise in food costs while liquor stores sales were up 2.4 per cent with a 2.1 per cent rise in the cost in alcohol.