Retail sales at existing department stores and supermarkets in Kyushu and Okinawa rose 1.8% in April year-on-year, marking the 43rd consecutive month of growth, the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry announced on June 10, as reported by Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Total sales, including new stores, reached ¥139.4 billion, a 2.5% increase.
Supermarkets saw a 4.8% increase, driven by strong sales of rice substitutes such as frozen foods, pasta, and grains amid continued price surges. Seasonal demand around school entrance ceremonies also boosted sushi sales.
In contrast, department stores experienced a 5.7% decline, largely due to decreased demand for luxury goods from inbound tourists. The bureau attributed the shift to a stronger yen and changing preferences toward more affordable items like sweets and cosmetics. Source: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
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