In May 2002, as compared to May 2001, the volume of retail trade1 increased by 0.7% in the euro-zone² and by 1.6% in the EU15, Eurostat, the Statistical Office of the European Communities in Luxembourg, estimates today. Compared to April 2002, sales3 rose by 0.4% in the euro-zone and by 0.1% in the EU15.
Annual variations
In May 2002, as compared to May 2001, retail trade of 'food, drinks and tobacco' gained 1.2% in the euro-zone and 1.5% in the EU15. The sales of food in specialised stores fell by 1.1% in the euro-zone and 1.0% in the EU15, while sales in non specialised stores increased by 1.9% and 2.3% respectively.
The non food sector decreased by 0.3% in the euro-zone but gained 1.1% in the EU15. Among the non food sectors, 'textiles, clothing and footwear' fell by 3.7% in the euro-zone and 0.8% in the EU15. Retail sales of 'household goods' decreased by 1.2% in the euro-zone but rose by 0.6% in the EU15.
(source: Eurostat)
