SME retail sales fell in May, although the year-to-date figure continues to rise.

In May, retail sales of small and medium-sized businesses registered a year-on-year drop of 2.9% at constant prices, according to the survey by the Argentine Confederation of Medium-Sized Enterprises (CAME) . In the seasonally adjusted monthly comparison, a decrease of 0.7% was also observed compared to April.

Despite this decline, the year-to-date figure shows an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2024, driven by a low comparison base and some recovery in activity in the first months of the year.

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Regarding projections, 49.2% of SME entrepreneurs expect an improvement in their financial situation within a year, while only 9.3% anticipate a worsening. However, caution persists when it comes to investing: 55.9% believe this is not a good time to do so, compared to 14.4% who remain optimistic.

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During May, a more cautious consumption pattern consolidated, focusing on essential products. Retail activity showed a slight decline amid lower liquidity, price adjustments, and increased operational demands. There was also a drop in traffic in shopping centers and increased competition from the online channel and informal formats.

Compared to May 2024, 58.3% of companies reported that their financial situation remained stable, while 28% reported a deterioration, and 13.6% reported an improvement.

Among the seven sectors surveyed, two showed year-on-year growth:

• Perfumery , with an increase of 10.3%
• Pharmacy , with a moderate increase

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Four sectors registered declines:

• Food and beverages : -7.6%
• Hardware, electrical materials and construction
• Textiles and clothing
• Footwear and leather goods

Meanwhile, bazaar, home decor, home textiles, and furniture remained unchanged from the previous year.