CHRISTMAS SALES INCREASE A BIT
By Adnews Staff
Independent store owners say their 1998 Christmas sales jumped 3.6%, according to a survey released by the Retail Council of Canada. Retailers in Ontario reported the highest gains, up an average of 6.8%, but retailers in British Columbia were singing a different tune. Their sales dropped 1.4%. Retailers in the prairies and Atlantic regions reported average increases of 2%. The products that increased sales by 5% or more were books and cards, drugs, gifts and novelties, food and toys. Sales were weaker for computers, electronics, jewelry, shoes and apparel. The weak sales reflect increased competition from larger format stores. For 1999, independent retailers are optimistic, expecting sales to climb an average of 5.3%. Ontario merchants are most optimistic, predicting that sales will be boosted by 8%. Atlantic Canada and the prairies expect sale to rise 4% and 3% respectively. B.C. retailers say they will see sales increase by 1%. The Retail Council of Canada represents two-thirds of Canada's general merchandise retailers and is comprised of merchants of all sizes, categories and regions across the country. Over 90% of the association's members are independent store operators. The study surveyed 400 independent retailers between Jan. 7 and 13.