Retailing: improved business prospects

The Business Climate Indicator for retailing increased markedly after five consecutive months of decline. The companies assessed their current situation, on average, more favourably than in the previous month. In addition, they regard the business outlook less critically. Turnover exceeded the results of the previous year. However, the increase in inventories also continued in March, so that retailers will maintain their restrictive order policies. A somewhat larger number of retailers plan to increase prices than in the previous month.