New figures show the retail sector was buoyant before the nationwide lockdown, with electronics sales leading the charge.
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Data from Stats NZ showed total retail sales volume rose 3.3% in the June quarter, following a 2.8% rise in the March quarter.
“Most retail industries saw increased spending, with increases in all regions. Spending on wholesale items such as electrical appliances, household goods and vehicles was a priority for many consumers during this June quarter,” said Sue Chapman, retail director for Stats NZ.
Electrical items were the hardest hit, with sales volumes up nearly 6.9%, followed by a 5.6% rise in food and beverages and a 3.1 % in the retail sale of motor vehicles and spare parts.
“Many retailers saw sales increase this quarter, following the uncertainty of this time last year when the country emerged from the first major Covid-19 lockdown period,” Chapman said.
Sales value was also boosted by vehicle sales, as well as restaurants.
When the effects of price changes are included, the seasonally adjusted value of total retail sales increased by $1.1 billion (4%) in the June quarter, Stats NZ said.
Food services saw the largest increase in dollar value, up $222 million (7%) this June quarter, following a modest increase of $43 million (1.4%) in the March quarter .
The value of retail motor vehicle and parts sales topped $4 billion for the first time.
The industry recorded a strong increase of $179 million (4.6%) during this June quarter, following the increase of $117 million (3.1%) for the March quarter.
“We have received feedback from some vehicle respondents indicating an increase in sales of higher priced vehicles, and that they have seen greater interest in EV purchases during this quarter,” said Chapman.
