Eurozone retail sales fell more than forecasts in October

According to estimates from Eurostat, in October 2019 compared with September 2019, the seasonally adjusted volume of retail trade decreased by 0.6% in the euro area (EA19) and by 0.4% in the EU28. Economists had expected a 0.3% decrease in the euro area. In September 2019, the retail trade volume decreased by 0.2% in the euro area and by 0.1% in the EU28. In October 2019 compared with October 2018, the calendar adjusted retail sales index increased by 1.4% in the euro area and by 1.9% in the EU28. Economists had expected a 2.2% increase in the euro area.

In the euro area in October 2019, compared with September 2019, the volume of retail trade decreased by 1.1% for non-food products, while food, drinks and tobacco increased by 0.3% and automotive fuels by 0.6%. In the EU28, the volume of retail trade decreased by 0.8% for non-food products while food, drinks and tobacco increased by 0.2% and automotive fuels by 0.6%.

In the euro area in October 2019, compared with October 2018, the volume of retail trade increased by 2.3% for non-food products, by 1.4% for automotive fuel and by 0.3% for food, drinks and tobacco. In the EU28, the retail trade volume increased by 2.8% for non-food products, by 2.0% for automotive fuel, and by 0.9% for food, drinks and tobacco.