Wellington Retail Sales Disappointing in September

Media Release
14 November 2011

Wellington Retail Sales Disappointing in September

Retail sales for Wellington were disappointing in the September quarter given the boost provided by the Rugby World Cup and World of Wearable Art according to the Wellington Employers Chamber of Commerce.

Seasonally adjusted retail sales for Wellington increased 0.7% in the September quarter compared with 2.1% for the country as a whole.

“The Rugby World Cup and WOW provided a bit of a boost to sales in the quarter, but we had hoped for more,” said Chamber CEO Ken Harris.

“Given the economic slowdown and the uncertainty in the public service, a 0.7% increase isn’t too bad but many retailers were clearly disappointed that sales did not meet expectations - particularly with the hype generated around of the World Cup.

“The fact that Wellington’s increase was slower than most other parts of the country is somewhat disappointing.

“December quarter figures are expected to be better for Wellington with half of the games, including the big quarter finals, falling in October.

“While hospitality and accommodation sales were up, which is unsurprising given the visitors, durables such as electrical goods, hardware and furnishings were flat.

“Retail sales are a good indicator of business confidence and these figures are indicative of a fairly subdued mood,” Mr Harris concluded.

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