BUENOS AIRES: Sales in the small business sector have risen for the eight consecutive months in July, increasing by 1.7 percent compared to the same period last year.
The Argentine Small Business Confederation (CAME) reported more growth in the past month, albeit with several important variables. Consumers remained alert to offers in the market, principally those offered by credit card companies and with low prices driving lower prices for some products.
One trend that has been consolidated is the purchase of goods between Thursday and Sunday to take advantage of 12 interest-free instalments with the Ahora 12 program. In the electrodomestics, furniture and clothing sectors almost all consumption is financed with instalments.
In July, moreover, aguinaldo payments and the close of salary negotiations also led to higher purchasing power for families.
The winter holidays, Copa America, Panamerican Games and Friends Day also pushed other sectors to better sales.
Small business sales have increased a total of 1.9 percent over the first seven months of 2015, compared to the same period last year.