The latest Shop and Display Equipment Association (SDEA) survey reveals an encouraging 64% of respondents reported an increase in sales over the past six months, and of those the average was of a 17% rise. Less than half this number, 28%, recorded an average decline in sales of 19% and only 8% of members’ sales remained unchanged.
When members were asked to compare sales during the past six months with the same period in the previous year a substantial 48% recorded an increase in sales with 18% being the average sales increase.
When asked to forecast sales prospects over the next six months the majority expected to see a rise. 52% anticipate a sales increase by an average of 13% and a further 40% forecast sales to remain the same with only 8% expecting a decline in sales.
SDEA director, Antony Behiel, said: “It is encouraging to see that many members’ sales have increased, with this set to continue over the next six months. Despite a rise in supplier prices, which has been well reported since the devaluation of Sterling and Brexit, the industry remains relatively buoyant. Of the 76% of members that recorded a supplier price increase, averaging a 5% hike, over half are not looking to pass this on to their customers - testimony to the strength of the retail display industry.”