Australian Open, cricket matches boost retail sales in January, according to new ABS data
Retail turnover posted a slight uptick in January led by food-related spending as consumers flocked to large-scale events like the Australian Open and cricket matches.
Retail sales rose 0.3 per cent in January, meeting consensus estimates. It followed a 0.1 per cent fall in December, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics on Tuesday. Retail turnover is up 3.8 per cent year-on-year.
“While the pick-up in retail spending since mid-2024 has been boosted by more discretionary spending, this month’s rise is mostly driven by food-related spending,” ABS head of business statistics Robert Ewing said.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Bumper crowds across large-scale events, including record attendance at the Australian Tennis Open and cricket events, lifted spending in catering services.”
Food-related spending bounced back in January following a fall in December, with rises in both cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services (up 1.1 per cent) and food retailing (up 0.7 per cent).
Retail sales rose in most States and Territories, except NSW (down 0.3 per cent) and the Northern Territory (flat).
More to come.
