Retail sales in Canada were up 18.7 per cent in May to $41.8 billion but they remained 20 per cent below February levels, according to a new report released Tuesday by Statistics Canada.
“Following COVID-19-related store closures in April, a number of provinces moved ahead with plans to re-open their respective economies, which impacted the retail sector in May,” said the federal agency.
“Based on respondent feedback, approximately 23 per cent of retailers were closed during May. The average length of shutdown was five business days.”
It said sales were up in 10 out of 11 subsectors in May. Motor vehicle and parts dealers, general merchandise stores, as well as clothing and clothing accessories stores were the main contributors to the strength seen in May.
“Although most subsectors were up in May, it is important to note they have not rebounded to sales levels seen before COVID-19. Retail sales in volume terms were up 17.8 per cent in May, following a record decline of 24.1 per cent in April,” said StatsCan.
“Given the rapidly-evolving economic situation, Statistics Canada is providing an advance estimate of June sales. Early estimates suggest that retail sales increased by 24.5 per cent in June. Owing to its preliminary nature, this figure should be expected to be revised.”
Sales at the pump were up 17.1 per cent, following the largest decline on record in April (-35.4 per cent), while the volume of gasoline sold increased 11.1 per cent in May, it added.
On a year-over-year basis, Canadian retail sales were down 18.4 per cent.
In Alberta, sales rose by 15.8 per cent in May to $5.7 billion but they were still down 15.9 per cent from a year ago.
