Retail sales in the Netherlands saw a notable uptick in January 2025, with turnover rising by 3.8% compared to the same month in 2024, as reported by Statistics Netherlands (CBS). When adjusted for calendar effects, the sales volume also grew by 2.0% year-on-year, underscoring steady consumer demand.
The non-food sector, encompassing retail beyond physical stores, recorded a 2.9% increase in turnover. After adjusting for price changes, the sales volume in this category also saw a strong rise of 2.8% compared to January 2024.
This growth was driven by several segments, including footwear and leather goods retailers, DIY stores, recreational goods outlets, and clothing retailers. However, not all areas performed equally, with home furnishings stores experiencing a decline in turnover.
The online retail sector continued to flourish, with turnover jumping by 5.1% compared to January 2024. Online-only retailers, whose primary operations are internet-based, spearheaded this growth with a 7.9% surge in sales. Meanwhile, multi-channel retailers, which operate both online and in physical stores, saw a more modest 1.0% increase in online turnover, according to CBS.
Online sales of non-food items, such as clothing and fashion accessories, also posted year-on-year gains in January 2025, reflecting the ongoing trend toward digital shopping.
Without calendar adjustments, retail turnover in January 2025 would have been 5.3% higher than in January 2024, indicating even stronger underlying growth trends within the sector.
