Rise in retail sales

31st July 2013

Sign of ‘increasing consumer confidence’

Scottish retail sales figures have increased for the second time this year, official figures published today show.

The amount of goods purchased in shops increased by 2.4 per cent when compared to the same quarter last year, and 0.5 per cent when compared to the previous quarter.

Finance Secretary John Swinney said:"Our retail sector makes up over five per cent of Scotland’s economy so it’s good news to see trade picking up for the second quarter in a row. This is an encouraging sign of increasing consumer confidence for 2013.

“Scotland also shows an increase on sales over the year when compared to the rest of the UK.

"This is further positive news for Scotland’s economy following GDP figures which showed a 1.2 per cent growth, and labour market statistics showing Scotland has a higher employment rate, lower unemployment rate and lower inactivity rate than any other nation in the UK.

“However it remains a tough time for the retail industry. Low income growth is still limiting consumers ability to spend so increases in retail sales are likely to be limited until the recovery gains pace.

“We are doing everything we can with our limited powers but the UK Government need to take urgent action to spur the economy.”

The volume of goods purchased in shops increased by 2.4 per cent since the same quarter last year, and 0.5 per cent when compared to the previous quarter. The total value of the products purchased grew by 3.6 per cent over the year and 0.9 per cent when compared to the previous quarter.

Retail sales in Great Britain increased by 1.7 per cent when compared to the same quarter last year and 0.7 per cent when compared to the previous quarter. The total value of the products purchased grew by 3.2 per cent over the year and 1.2 per cent when compared to the previous quarter.

The full statistical publication can be accessed at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Economy/PubRSI/RSIS2013Q2