Retail sales plunged again in November — with consumers spending $5m less than the same time last year, according to figures released this morning.

The Retail Sales Index showed that total retail sales fell by five percent in November, with gross turnover measured at $88 million, compared to the $93 million recorded for the same period last year.

However when the figure is adjusted for inflation, retail sales fell by seven per cent.

Badly affected were apparel sales despite attempts by retailers to encourage consumer spending. During November, retailers offered longer operating hours and bargain prices for selected goods. Sales for the apparel sector fell eight percent in November.

Building material sales declined 13 percent compared to the same period last year — the second consecutive month of double-digit sales declines as retailers in the building materials sector continued to feel the impact of a reduction in new construction projects and the completion of existing major contracts.

Combined sales of all other store types, which include retailers of furniture, appliances, electronics and pharmaceuticals, plummeted ten per cent year over year.

The sales performance level reflected lower revenue from furniture sales, and appliance sales, which fell sharply by 39 percent and 12 percent, respectively.

* Full story in tomorrow's Royal Gazette.