Online retail struggles continue into 2019
- Online retail recorded its worst January sales growth in three years
- E-commerce saw a 7% year-on-year increase
- Health and beauty enjoyed an 8.1% growth
- Gifts and electricals recorded drops of 25.8% and 19.1% respectively
- January’s growth was half that of last year and below the five-year average for the month
Online retail faced its worst January sales growth in three years, with a 7% year-on-year increase, slightly above the average of 6.3%. December’s record low performance affected the six and twelve-month averages, falling below 7.9% and 11.2% respectively. Health and beauty saw an 8.1% growth, while gifts and electricals experienced drops of 25.8% and 19.1%. Experts predict a challenging year ahead due to store closures, low consumer confidence, and economic uncertainty. The mild weather may help stimulate spring sales.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about the e-commerce industry’s sales performance in January, citing specific growth rates for different categories and including expert opinions from industry professionals. It also mentions factors affecting retail such as consumer confidence and Brexit uncertainty. However, it lacks some details on the overall market context and could provide more data to support the experts’ statements.
Noise Level: 4
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about online retail sales performance and includes insights from industry experts. However, it lacks in-depth analysis or actionable insights for readers.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Online retail industry
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the financial performance of online retail sales and its impact on various product categories, which can affect the stocks and revenue of companies in this sector.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no mention of an extreme event in the text.
www.retailsector.co.uk