Australian retail sales up 3% in November 2024

Black Friday sales played a key role in this growth.

Retail sales in Australia increased by 3% year-on-year in November 2024, reaching over $37b, with Black Friday sales playing a key role in the growth, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Key sectors saw strong performance, with sales in "other retailing" (including recreational and sporting goods, and cosmetics) up 7%. Cafes, restaurants, and takeaway services rose 3.6%, and food sales grew by 2.8%. Household goods sales increased by 1.2%, whilst department stores saw a 1.2% decline.

Fleur Brown, chief industry affairs officer at the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), attributed the growth to Black Friday sales and increased spending in food and hospitality as Australians entered the holiday season.

“This bargain hunting focus and a continued trend towards spending on little luxuries and the desire to celebrate the festive season with friends and family strongly contributed to November’s overall spending growth,” she said.