Retail sales in the euro area remained unchanged in June

The volume of retail trade in the euro area remained unchanged in June because of falling sales of food and beverages.

Published data show a decline in consumer spending, which could adversely affect the economic recovery.

Compared with the same period last year, retail sales in the euro area rose by 0.4%, surpassing expectations.

Economists forecast a rise of retail sales at 0.1% in June and 0,1% in annual terms.