Small business retail sales rebound in OctoberAccording to Argentina Small Business Federation (came).
The entity noted that the conditions are subject to low household purchasing capacity, lack of liquidity, and volatility related to legislative measures, and therefore noted that: Consumption showed a change in habitsgreater purchase selectivity and lower average spending.
he specified it An increase of 2.8% was observed in the last month Seasonally adjusted monthly comparisons and year-to-date comparisons Cumulative increase of 4.2% compared to the previous year. He added that this was a decrease compared to October 2024. 1.4% At a certain price.
In that sense, when we analyze each item, Six of the seven sectors surveyed saw year-over-year declines.. “perfume” had the highest rate of decline (6.3%)followed by “Bazaar, Decorations, Home Textiles, Furniture” (3.7%).
Instead, Monthly comparison shows an increase in all registered items. “perfume” led to growthWith the rise of 9.7% Comparison with previous month. This is followed by “Hardware, Electrical and Construction Materials” (4.1%).
“Temporary increase in demand due to promotions and Mother’s DayHowever, this was not enough to correct the overall trend of cautious consumption and stagnation recorded for several months,” CAME stressed. A sense of caution regarding expectations precedes the decline in investment appetite..
He added that the companies that participated in the survey, which was conducted from November 1 to 6 and included 1,183 retail stores, emphasized that:Higher operating costs; ability From imported goods, supermarkets, wholesalers, delivery applications, foreign digital platforms and unofficial channels. and Promotion effect is low facing a loss of purchasing power. ”
“Cash discount strategies, card agreements and activities on social networks were implemented to maintain sales. Billings remained stable in nominal termsHowever, he pointed out that there is a strong sense of caution among consumers and that there are no signs of a sustained recovery.
For CAME, Household items were not a spending priority. Uncertainty and high financing rates limited card purchases, and cash promotions and discounts failed to produce lasting improvements.
Regarding Economic situation of the company, 56% of respondents said the current situation would remain the same. Until last year 33% were even worse.decreased by 5 points from September.
Regarding expectations, 47.9% expect it to improve next yearhe 43% We estimate that this will not change, 9% Deterioration is expected.
On the other hand, difficulties in maintaining employment and raising funds were also pointed out. Moderate expectations for economic recovery after election process.
“Most companies expect a slight improvement in activity Towards the end of the year, it is related to the change of seasons and consumption in December,” CAME emphasized.
meanwhile, Regarding the possibility of investment, 57.3% think now is not the time.against 14.8% Who thinks so, and 27.9% Someone who doesn’t have a clear opinion or doesn’t answer the question.