The belief in increased sales during the summer meant slightly rising prospects for retail and e-commerce in July, according to this month's Trade Barometer. However, the increase is from low levels and the outlook remains pessimistic.

”"Summer shopping is an important period for all trade. Increased tourism from both Swedish and foreign tourists as a result of a weak krona means that visits to the country's stores are increasing. The positive signals we are now receiving are extremely welcome after the tough times that trade is certainly still going through," says Sofia Larsen, CEO of Svensk Handel, in a comment.

The indicator value for retail trade rose by 2.2 units to 80.0. E-commerce rose more modestly by 0.8 to 86.5.

The wholesale trade indicator value, in turn, fell by 2.8 units to 80.8.

The results mean that Swedish retailers have had a negative view of the next three months based on sales, the number of employees and the profitability of the business for 14 consecutive months.

Source: TT