JANUARY RETAIL SALES HIGHEST IN CANADA

Today Statistics Canada released January retail sales numbers that indicate Saskatchewan's sales had the highest percentage growth in the country.

The report indicates that retail sales in Saskatchewan increased by six per cent in January 2011 when compared to 2010 on a seasonally adjusted basis. Between December 2010 and January 2011, sales were up by three per cent in the province.

"Strong economies influence consumer confidence and directly impact retail sales," Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "Saskatchewan people are feeling certainty about the economic direction in our province and this fiscal advantage has consumers buying."

Nationally, retail sales were up 3.5 per cent on an annual basis, but sales declined between December and January by 0.3 per cent.

"Our province is bucking the national trend when you look at the short-term figures," Harrison said. "It is fair to say Saskatchewan's economy is more buoyant, and we anticipate this will translate into longer term improvements on the retail front."

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For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6315
Email: Deb.Young@enterprisesask.ca