Retail Sector Trends

Spanish H&M rival makes major push in the US

Inditex, the owner of Zara, is ramping up its efforts in the US—the group's second-largest market—through new store openings and the upgrading of existing locations. The H&M competitor plans to carry out 20 projects in the country between now and the end of 2027, CEO Oscar Garcia Maceiras told Reuters.

The interest in the US stems from the market's size and importance.

"We are focusing on selective growth and ensuring that every store is profitable," Garcia Maceiras told the news agency.

Households open their wallets again – retail sales rise

Increased purchasing power among Swedish households has led to higher spending, boosting the retail sector, according to a new economic report from the Swedish Retail Institute (HUI).

"After years of deferring purchases, households are once again willing to buy furniture, appliances, and home decor," HUI writes, adding that the upturn is broader and stronger than anticipated.

At the same time, an interest rate hike by the Riksbank this autumn could potentially slow consumption once more.