Retail turnover down again

In February, Dutch retailers faced more than 3 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 more than 4 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 more than 5 percent compared to February 2009. With a decline by 11.5 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 1 percent compared to twelve months previously. Supermarket sales equalled the level of February 2009, while turnover realised by specialised food shops dropped by more than 6 percent.

Despite higher fuel prices, turnover of petrol stations was more than 1 percent lower in February 2010 than in February 2009. About one tenth of total retail turnover is generated by petrol stations.

Retail turnover