No Christmas Bonus for Retailers

Chambers Ireland has today (28/01/13) called on Government to introduce proactive measures to stimulate and support domestic demand, including confirming a revised date for Budget day that is well in advance of the Christmas period, given Retail Sales Index figures that show a monthly volume index decrease of 0.1%.

Speaking this morning, Seán Murphy, Chambers Ireland Deputy CEO said: “This is a disappointing set of results for the broader retail sector throughout Ireland. Despite positive soundings from our affiliated chambers in the border regions that fewer people went north of the border for their Christmas shopping and many northern shoppers were coming south, these figures show that consumer confidence remains low and the Government continues to struggle on the issue of domestic demand.”

“Christmas is a time when all retailers should expect to see a significant boost in their sales. While some retail sectors have improved, these figures underline the challenges that the wider business community is facing,” he concluded.

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For further information contact Amy Woods, Chambers Ireland on 01 400 4319, 086 6081605 or email amy.woods@www.chambers.ie