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Retail sales surge to 14.8% higher than pre-virus level

Retail sales volumes in August 2021 were 14.8% higher than in August 2019, the latest CSO figures show.

Non-specialised stores (including supermarkets) had the highest monthly decrease, of 3.7%.

Only two sectors had lower sales than August 2019 – bars (-27.6%), and books, newspapers and stationery (-13.4%).

The proportion of retail sales transacted online (from Irish registered companies) was 4.9% in August 2021, similar to July 2021 (4.8%) and August of last year (4.5%).

Statistician Stephanie Kelleher said: "Retail sales increased by 3.5% in August 2021 when compared to July 2021 on a seasonally-adjusted basis.

“On an annual basis, retail volumes were 6.0% higher than in August 2020. Retail sales for August 2021 were 14.8% higher when compared to two years earlier, pre-COVID-19.”

In August 2021, the largest monthly volume increases in sales were recorded in:

• Books, newspapers and stationery (+48.7%),
• Bars (+31.9%), and,
• Department stores (+20.2%). 

The sectors which experienced decreases in the month were non-specialised stores including supermarkets) (-3.7%) and pharmaceuticals, medical and cosmetic articles (-2.3%).

Higher sales

Kelleher added: ”Compared to August 2019, pre-COVID-19, most sectors have higher sales than two years ago.

“The highest increases were seen in motor trades (+26.9%), electrical goods (+23.6%) and department stores (+19.2%). 

“Two sectors had a volume of sales in August 2021 lower than August 2019 levels, bars (-27.6%) and books, newspapers and stationery (-13.4%).”