Retail shows early signs of recovery ahead of 2026

Retailers are hoping sales are a sign of recovery for the sector in 2026. (Image: File)

Wed, 17 Dec 2025

Black Friday sales have been hailed as a potential turning point for the retail sector heading into 2026, as economists look to low interest rates and improving employment levels to fuel the economic recovery. Stats New Zealand electronic card transactions data shows retail card spending in November increased by 1.6% year on year, 2.1% on core retail, while the seasonally adjusted numbers increased by 1.2%. Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young said an increase in sales could be an early sign of recovery for the retail sector n...

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