Retail sales in the Czech Republic increased by 1.9 percent year-on-year in July and grew by 1.8 percent month-on-month according to calendar adjusted data from the Czech Statistical Office. In June, according to revised data, retail sales fell by 1.4 percent year on year.
Sales of non-food goods grew the most. On the contrary, the year-on-year decline in motor vehicle sales persisted.
Excluding seasonal adjustment, traders’ sales rose three percent in July compared to the same month last year. Internet sales have maintained the highest growth for a long time, but growth rates declined slightly, and customers are gradually returning to brick-and-mortar stores. Sales from e-shops and mail order stores increased by 20.9 percent year on year.
The growth in sales in July was recorded mainly in the range of non-food goods. For example, sales of products for culture and sports increased by more than ten percent. Sellers of computers and communication equipment spent a tenth more than last year. Sales of household products rose by 7.3 percent. Customers spent 2.8 percent more year-on-year on pharmaceutical, medical and cosmetic products. On the other hand, specialized grocery stores recorded a decrease in sales by 6.7 percent, according to statistics.
Car dealers continued to fail in July. Revenues from the sale and repair of motor vehicles were lower by 10.5 percent compared to last July. Revenues from repairs decreased by 6.2 percent, while motor vehicles’ sales, including spare parts, were lower by 11.6 percent.