According to estimates from Eurostat, in October 2019 compared with September 2019, the seasonally adjusted volume of retail trade decreased by 0.6% in the euro area (EA19) and by 0.4% in the EU28. Economists had expected a 0.3% decrease in the euro area. In September 2019, the retail trade volume decreased by 0.2% in the euro area and by 0.1% in the EU28. In October 2019 compared with October 2018, the calendar adjusted retail sales index increased by 1.4% in the euro area and by 1.9% in the EU28. Economists had expected a 2.2% increase in the euro area.

In the euro area in October 2019, compared with September 2019, the volume of retail trade decreased by 1.1% for non-food products, while food, drinks and tobacco increased by 0.3% and automotive fuels by 0.6%. In the EU28, the volume of retail trade decreased by 0.8% for non-food products while food, drinks and tobacco increased by 0.2% and automotive fuels by 0.6%.

In the euro area in October 2019, compared with October 2018, the volume of retail trade increased by 2.3% for non-food products, by 1.4% for automotive fuel and by 0.3% for food, drinks and tobacco. In the EU28, the retail trade volume increased by 2.8% for non-food products, by 2.0% for automotive fuel, and by 0.9% for food, drinks and tobacco.