Today, the Ministry of Economy and Labour released the November 2021 Retail Sales Index (
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November’s retail sales fell 8.6% compared to last year. In value terms, retail sales fell 4.7%, which represents an estimated $96.8 million compared to last year (November 2020).
However, an area of positive retail sales activity was Motor Vehicle Stores, which grew by 15.2% spurred by an increase in the number of cars sold.
Also during November 2021, overseas declarations increased 10.0% compared to November 2020. The rise in overseas declarations was influenced mostly by higher imports by households via sea related to clothing and accessories.
There were some declines in various sectors.
Service Stations’ sales fell 4.0% despite an increased in vehicular traffic compared to the previous year.
Sales at Apparel Stores decreased 5.4% as more residents travelled and purchased clothing overseas.
In the All Other Store Types sector (comprising of stores selling household items, furniture, appliances, electronics, pharmaceuticals and tourist-related goods), there was a 10.3% decrease due to lower sales of furniture, appliances and boating supplies, as well as sales at pharmacies.
Sales at Food Stores decreased by 8.7%; Liquor Stores’ sales fell by 11.0%; and Building Material Stores’ sales declined by 33.3%.
The public can review the November 2021 Retail Sales Index report in full at https://www.gov.bm/retail-sales-index-rsi.