Cyprus has emerged as the leader in retail sales growth within the EU, recording an impressive annual increase of 8.5 per cent in November 2025. This surge in consumer spending on the island contrasts sharply with the modest growth seen across Europe, as detailed by Eurostat.
In November 2025, the seasonally adjusted retail trade volume across the European Union and the euro area rose by a mere 0.2 per cent compared to the previous month. This follows a growth of 0.3 per cent in the euro area and 0.2 per cent in the EU during October 2025.
On an annual scale, both the euro area and the EU’s calendar-adjusted retail sales index saw an increase of 2.3 per cent when compared to November 2024. However, Cyprus’s standout performance significantly outpaced other member states, with Portugal and Denmark following at 6.5 per cent and 6.2 per cent respectively.
While Cyprus thrived, other countries experienced declines in retail trade. Romania faced the steepest drop at 4.6 per cent, along with Slovakia, Austria, and Luxembourg, which also reported negative growth.
Retail sales: Sector-Specific Insights
Examining sector performance, the euro area recorded a 1.1 per cent increase in retail trade volumes for food, drinks, and tobacco compared to the same month a year prior. Non-food product sales, excluding automotive fuel, saw a robust annual growth of 3.5 per cent.
In the EU overall, retail volumes for food, drinks, and tobacco rose by 0.8 per cent year on year, while non-food products, excluding automotive fuel, increased by 3.6 per cent. Additionally, automotive fuel sales in specialised stores climbed by 2.0 per cent across the EU.
Monthly Trends and Variations
Monthly trends within the euro area in November 2025 were mixed compared to October. Retail trade volumes for food, drinks, and tobacco declined by 0.2 per cent, whereas non-food products, excluding automotive fuel, increased moderately by 0.4 per cent. Retail volumes for automotive fuel in specialised stores saw a slight decrease of 0.1 per cent.
In the EU, retail volumes for food, drinks, and tobacco remained stable, while sales of non-food products, excluding automotive fuel, experienced a 0.4 per cent rise. The automotive fuel sector also held steady, showing no change compared to October.
Member State Performance
Among EU member states, Luxembourg reported the strongest monthly increase in total retail trade volume, with a remarkable rise of 5.8 per cent. Portugal and Denmark also demonstrated significant growth. In contrast, the largest monthly declines were noted in Croatia, Belgium, and Slovakia, with reductions of 2.2 per cent, 1.6 per cent, and 1.5 per cent respectively.
The retail landscape in Cyprus reflects a vibrant consumer market, with factors contributing to this growth likely including increased disposable income and a robust tourism sector. As the island continues to lead in retail sales growth, it sets a precedent for economic resilience within the EU.
