Retail businesses across India saw sales grow 13 percent in June compared to pre-pandemic levels in the same month in 2019, the Retailers Association of India said on Monday.
Although sales last month were above pre-pandemic levels, the second half of June has not been very encouraging and the impact of inflation on consumer spending is still a concern, which could impact upcoming festive sales, retailers said Association of India (RAI) said in a statement.
According to RAI’s latest business survey, retail businesses in the eastern region recorded the highest growth last month, up 17 percent from June 2019, followed by the north at 16 percent, the west at 11 percent and the south at 9 percent.
“While June 2022 saw growth compared to the same period before the pandemic, the rate of growth has definitely slowed. Many retailers have indicated that the second half of June was not very encouraging as there were not too many celebratory events such as weddings to boost sales.
“Inflation headwinds on consumer spending are still a concern and could impact the upcoming festive fervor. We’ll have to wait and see how the next two months unfold,” said RAI CEO Kumar Rajagopalan.
In terms of categories, sporting goods grew 29 percent last month compared to June 2019, according to the RAI survey, followed by jewelry at 27 percent, durable goods and electronics, and quick-service restaurants at 16 percent each.
The apparel and apparel & footwear categories grew 14 percent last month compared to June 2019, RAI said.
