Switzerland’s retail sales rose 3.2% year-on-year in August 2026, accelerating from an upwardly revised 2.6% increase in July and exceeding market expectations of 2.2%. The result was the strongest growth in three months, supported by food, beverages and tobacco, as well as non-food sales excluding petrol stations. Gains were particularly strong in household equipment, textiles, DIY and furniture, and other goods, while cultural and recreational goods recovered. Sales declined in information and communication technology products, mail-order and internet retail, and service stations. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, retail activity increased 0.4%, following a 0.1% rise in the previous period.