Germany’s retail sector showed signs of stabilizing in April 2026, as the pace of decline in sales slowed notably on a month-over-month basis. According to data updated on 1 June 2026, retail sales fell by 0.3% in April compared with March, a marked improvement from the revised 2.0% drop recorded in March versus February.
The figures, measured on a month-over-month comparison, indicate that while consumer spending remains under pressure, the worst of the recent downturn may be easing. The “previous” indicator reflects the change in March relative to February, while the “actual” April reading compares sales to March. Although April’s reading is still in negative territory, the softer contraction suggests that German retailers could be moving toward a more stable footing after a sharp setback in early spring.
