CEE Retail Sales Momentum Fades in Q2 2026

Retail sales growth in Central and Eastern Europe showed a clear loss of momentum in the second quarter of 2026, following a stronger start to the year. The data point to a moderation in household demand compared with the first quarter.

While the overall picture remains somewhat mixed, the slowdown was broad-based. Virtually all countries in the region experienced a deceleration in average retail sales growth between the first two quarters of the year.

The figures suggest that consumer spending, a key driver of economic activity in the region, may be facing headwinds. Further details were not immediately available.