According to new data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), sales in bars increased by 31.9% month-on-month in Ireland in August.
August Vs. July
In a statement published on the CSO's website, statistician Stephanie Kelleher said, "Retail sales increased by 3.5% in August 2021 when compared to July 2021 on a seasonally adjusted basis. On an annual basis, retail volumes were 6.0% higher than in August 2020. Retail sales for August 2021 were 14.8% higher when compared to two years earlier pre COVID-19.
"In August 2021, the largest monthly volume increases in sales were recorded in Books, Newspapers & Stationery (+48.7%), Bars (+31.9%) and Department Stores (+20.2%). The sectors which experienced decreases in the month were Non-Specialised Stores (incl. Supermarkets) (-3.7%) and Pharmaceuticals, Medical & Cosmetic Articles (-2.3%)."
August 2021 Vs. August 2019
Kelleher continued, "Compared to August 2019, pre-COVID-19, most sectors have higher sales than two years ago. The highest increases were seen in Motor Trades (+26.9%), Electrical Goods (+23.6%) and Department Stores (+19.2%). Two sectors had a volume of sales in August 2021 lower than August 2019 levels, Bars (-27.6%) and Books, Newspapers & Stationery (-13.4%)."
"Proportion Of Retail Sales Transacted Online"
Kelleher added, "The proportion of retail sales transacted online (from Irish registered companies) was 4.9% in August 2021, similar to July 2021 (4.8%) and August of last year (4.5%)."
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