După ani de consum pe datorie, nota de plată ajunge la retail: vânzările scad cu aproape 6%

Retail sales in Romania dropped by 5.7% in the first seven months of 2026, driven by declines in non-food products, fuel, and food items. Analysts predict continued contraction in retail sales due to low private consumption and negative real wage growth. The decline is attributed to significant fiscal consolidation measures, including tax increases, leading to higher consumer goods prices and persistent inflation. Consumer confidence has worsened, with households reporting a bleak financial outlook. Despite a slight recovery in July, the overall sentiment in retail remains cautious, with managers indicating lower stock levels and more optimistic sales expectations for the future.