SASKATCHEWAN MOMENTUM CONTINUES WITH JUNE RETAIL SALES NUMBERS

Saskatchewan continues to flex its economic muscle as the latest figures from Statistics Canada show the province is tops in the nation for retail sales growth.

Comparing June 2008 with June 2007, Saskatchewan had the largest percentage increase in retail sales among the provinces on a seasonally-adjusted basis-13.5 per cent, the only double-digit increase among the provinces and over three times the national average of 4.0 per cent. Retail sales in Saskatchewan reached $1.2 billion (B) in June 2008, compared with $1.07B in June 2007.

Saskatchewan was number one on a seasonally-unadjusted basis as well, posting a very strong 8.8 per cent increase against just 0.2 per cent nationally.

"Saskatchewan is bucking the trend and leaving a significant economic footprint at the national level," Enterprise and Innovation Minister Lyle Stewart said. "Our momentum, our prosperity, and our growth is remarkable, but more importantly we believe it is also sustainable through innovation and collaboration."

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For more information, contact:

Jamie Shanks
Enterprise and Innovation
Regina
Phone: 787-1691
Email: jamie.shanks@gov.sk.ca