In September 2002, as compared to September 2001, the volume of retail trade decreased by 0.6% in the euro-zone and increased by 0.8% in the EU15, Eurostat, the Statistical Office of the European Communities in Luxembourg, estimates today. Compared to August 2002, sales fell by 2.1% in the euro-zone and by 1.0% in the EU15.
Annual variations
In September 2002, as compared to September 2001, retail trade of 'food, drinks and tobacco' decreased by 0.4% in the euro-zone and rose by 0.6% in the EU15. The sales of food in specialised stores fell by 0.8% in the euro-zone and 0.9% in the EU15, while sales in non specialised stores remained stable in the euro-zone but gained 1.3% in the EU15. The non food sector remained stable in the euro-zone but grew by 1.6% in the EU15. Among the non food sectors, 'textiles, clothing and footwear' fell by 5.0% in the euro-zone and 1.6% in the EU15. Retail sales of 'household goods' fell by 1.9% and 0.2% respectively.
(source: Eurostat)