Euro zone retail sales growth slowed in March 2026, with year-over-year expansion easing to 1.2% from 1.7% in February, according to data updated on 7 May 2026. The figures measure how retail activity in March this year compares with March a year earlier, while February’s reading reflected the same type of annual comparison.
The deceleration suggests consumer demand in the currency bloc is losing some momentum after a stronger showing in February. While retail sales are still growing compared with a year ago, the softer March print may prompt investors and policymakers to watch upcoming data closely for signs of whether this is the start of a broader cooling in household spending or a temporary pause after earlier gains.