Released on August 23, 2011
Saskatchewan retailers continue to set the bar nationally with the highest increases in the country, according to a report released by Statistics Canada today. Retail sales were up by 9.5 per cent between June 2010 and June 2011, the highest increase among the provinces on a seasonally adjusted basis, more than double the national increase of 4.6 per cent.
"A strong economy with more jobs, higher wages and significant growth translates into higher consumer confidence," Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "So far in 2011, retail sales have improved every month, setting a very positive trend for the first half of the year."
"Saskatchewan's economy is well positioned to weather the changes taking place globally because we are in great financial shape and reducing our debt, while still providing the essentials that lead to a better quality of life for all our citizens," Harrison said.
On a monthly basis, retail sales jumped 2.4 per cent between May 2011 and June 2011, well above the 0.7 per cent recorded for Canada. This was the sixth consecutive month that sales were up on a month to month basis.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-798-0503