Released on August 22, 2012
Statistics Canada today released a report on June retail figures that show Saskatchewan consumers increased their spending in June. According to the report, retail sales jumped by 5.3 per cent in June 2012 over June 2011, the second highest percentage increase in Canada and more than three times the national average. Retail sales were up by 1.7 per cent nationally over the same period.
"Average salaries are increasing in the province and that means there's more money for families," Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. "Confidence in the overall direction of the economy is helping to drive the higher retail sales today, and that's definitely good for Saskatchewan businesses."
On a month-over-month basis, retail sales were steady, up by 0.1 per cent between May 2012 and June 2012. On a monthly basis, retail sales dropped by 0.4 per cent in Canada. The $1.44 billion in retail sales was also a provincial record for the month of June.
"Record wholesale figures yesterday go hand-in-hand with the positive retail results in today's report," Boyd said. "This positive news confirms we continue to make solid economic gains that transform into real job and business opportunities for the people of Saskatchewan."
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For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6315
Email: deb.young@enterprisesask.ca