In April, Easter boosts retail sales
June 13, 2017 09h00 AM | Last Updated: July 18, 2017 04h06 PM
In April 2017, retail sales presented an advance of 1.0% in comparison with March. The increase takes place after two drops in a row (February and March), a period when the retail accumulated 1.6% of decrease. "The 1.0% rise has not eliminated the previous drop. The retail is still stable and very far from its 9.9% boom recorded in November 2014”, says Isabella Nunes Pereira, Data Analysis Manager of the Monthly Survey of Trade.
When the comparison with April 2016 is considered, the retail growth rate (1.9%) interrupts 24 months of decrease. According to Isabella, it is a positive result which must be seen in the light of April's peculiarities this year, considering the Easter holidays.
"Easter sales were concentrated in April, which caused a positive impact on the month. Supermarket is the most affected sector by the Easter sales, especially due to the chocolate eggs, bars and candies". According to the manager, the holiday also boosts the sales of food products (tomatoes, olive oil and fisheries, for example) for the preparations of family dinner parties.
Inflation impact
Inflation's pace of decline (0.14% in April) also contributed to the increase in sales. "There was a new composition in the real income of workers, despite the employment decrease. That makes the real wage bill stable", explains Isabella.
Another factor that might have had an impact on sales was the withdrawal of the FGTS inactive accounts, in force from March 10 to May 2.
To see the complete interview, click here
(updated on 06/13/2017 at 3 pm)
Text: Marcelo Benedicto
Video: Licia Rubinstein
