In February, retail sales of SMEs recorded a year-on-year increase of 24%, at constant prices. Despite this improvement, there was a month-on-month seasonally adjusted decrease of 3%. This was indicated by a survey conducted by the Argentine Confederation of Medium-sized Enterprises (CAME).
During the first two months of the year, the Food and Beverage sector led the growth with an increase of 32.8%. This performance was reflected in a 33% increase in sales compared to the previous year. However, when contrasted with the previous month, a decrease of 0.5% was detected.
In the Pharmacy sector, sales increased by 31.9% compared to the previous year and accumulated a growth of 25.9% in the first two months. Nevertheless, a month-on-month decline of 4.3% was recorded. Meanwhile, sales of Cosmetics rose 33.1% year-on-year and 21.6% in the two-month period, although in the seasonally adjusted month-on-month comparison, they decreased by 1.3%.
The Textile and Apparel sector experienced a year-on-year growth of 5.1% and accumulated a 15.8% advance. However, in the seasonally adjusted month-on-month comparison, a decline of 2.3% was observed. Regarding Footwear and Leather Goods, sales increased by 23% year-on-year and 21.4% in the two-month period, but a month-on-month decline of 1.9% was recorded.
Regarding the evolution of trade, CAME indicated that sales strategies, promotions, and discounts have driven better performance in various sectors. They also highlighted the adaptation of commerce to new consumption habits, with an increase in online sales and payment facilities. However, they warned about the challenges the sector faces in the coming months, especially concerning consumers' purchasing power and informal competition. Adjusting business strategies and adapting to economic conditions will be essential to maintain growth and mitigate potential declines in demand.
