Euro zone retail sales declined again in March 2026, but at a slower pace than a month earlier, suggesting consumer demand may be stabilizing after a weak start to the year. According to data updated on 7 May 2026, sales fell 0.1% month-over-month, following a 0.3% drop in February 2026.
The figures, measured on a month-over-month basis, compare the change in March to February, while the previous reading reflected the change in February versus January. While still in negative territory, the smaller contraction in March indicates that the downward momentum in consumer spending may be moderating across the euro area, a key consideration for investors tracking the region’s growth outlook and monetary policy path.
