Retail turnover down again

In February, Dutch retailers faced a 4 percent loss of turnover relative to February 2009. Retail prices were more than 1 percent higher than one year previously. As a result, retail volume shrank by 5 percent. February 2010 was the thirteenth month in a row to show turnover decline compared to twelve months previously.

Turnover generated in the non-food sector dropped by nearly 6 percent compared to February 2009. With a decline by 11 percent, DIY shops suffered most. Shops selling household appliances also suffered considerable loss of turnover. Chemist shops, on the other hand, realised a higher turnover than twelve months previously.

Turnover in the food sector fell by nearly 3 percent compared to twelve months previously. Supermarket sales were over 2 percent down and turnover realised by specialised food shops dropped by nearly 6 percent.

Despite higher fuel prices, turnover of petrol stations was nearly 2 percent lower in February 2010 than in February 2009. About one tenth of total retail turnover is generated by petrol stations.

Retail turnover

Retail turnover