The statement revealed that sales of food, drinks, and tobacco rose by 8.7%, while non-food (except automotive fuel) sales saw a significant increase of 16.9%. However, automotive fuel sales experienced a decline of 5.1% during the same period.

Monthly data also showed a positive trend, with retail sales volume increasing by 1.7% compared to the previous month. Food, drinks, and tobacco sales saw a slight uptick of 0.3%, while non-food sales (except automotive fuel) and automotive fuel sales increased by 2.3% and 1.8%, respectively.

Additionally, the report highlighted a substantial rise in retail turnover with current prices (2015=100), surging by 80.0% year-on-year in December 2023. Food, drinks, and tobacco sales increased by 78.8%, non-food sales (except automotive fuel) surged by 85.1%, and automotive fuel sales grew by 62.9%.

On a monthly basis, retail turnover with current prices rose by 4.3% compared to the previous month. Food, drinks, and tobacco sales increased by 4.1%, non-food sales (except automotive fuel) by 5.0%, and automotive fuel sales by 1.9%. (ILKHA)