Following a period of instability within the UK, the latest SDEA survey reveals a surprisingly large percentage of members are enjoying an increase in sales, which looks set to continue for the year ahead.
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.
Looking ahead a positive outlook was recorded within membership; when asked to forecast sales’ prospects over the next six months the majority expect 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 Behiels says, “It is encouraging to see that many members’ sales have increased, with this set to continue over the next 6 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”.
Shop and Display Equipment Association is Europe’s leading retail display trade organisation and provides excellent support for both its members and the retailer, together with over 60 years’ experience within the industry. SDEA is here to help and provides many services to the retailer including the SDEA retail display directory, website and InfoLine helpline. SDEA offers companies within the industry an excellent package of sales leads, discounts, endorsements and assistance.
www.shopdisplay.org
