In July 2002, as compared to July 2001, the volume of retail trade increased by 1.4% in the euro-zone and by 2.3% in the EU15, Eurostat, the Statistical Office of the European Communities in Luxembourg, estimates today. Compared to June 2002, sales rose by 0.6% in the euro-zone and by 0.8% in the EU15.
Annual variations
In July 2002, as compared to July 2001, retail trade of 'food, drinks and tobacco' rose by 1.5% in the euro-zone and by 1.9% in the EU15. The sales of food in specialised stores fell by 0.4% in the EU15, while sales in non specialised stores increased by 2.7 %.
The non food sector gained 0.5% in the euro-zone and 2.1% in the EU15. Among the non food sectors, 'textiles, clothing and footwear' grew by 2.3% in the euro-zone and by 5.4% in the EU15. Retail sales of 'household goods' fell by 1.2% and 0.1% respectively.
(source: Eurostat)