BER Retail Survey

Inflation expectations
Manufacturing
Retail
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Building and construction

BER Retail Survey

A quarterly report on the results, as well as implications, of the latest BER survey in the trade sectors (retail, wholesale and motor trade). Released in advance of official indicators of activity, it provides reliable and up-to-date information on current trends and a valuable perspective on the outlook for the sector.

Apart from business confidence, the survey data highlights current trends in business conditions, sales volumes and selling prices. In addition, the analysis of the retail trade sector provides detail on the durable, semi-durable and non-durable goods sectors and consumer and non-consumer goods for the wholesaler sector. Motor trade results are separated between new and used vehicles.

Regional perspectives for three main provinces (Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng) are also provided.

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Retail Survey, 2026Q1

Date Uploaded: March 12 2026 10:00


According to the latest BER Retail Survey, business confidence among retailers declined from 43% to 36% in the first quarter of 2026. After a year of solid optimism, supported by strong retail sales and consumer spending, retailer confidence lost momentum in 2026Q1. However, the survey details suggest the retail sector may simply be taking a breather rather than heading for a downturn.