Furniture retail sales in Ireland delivered a mixed performance in March 2026, with short-term gains offset by continued annual declines, according to new data from the Central Statistics Office.
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Figures from the latest Retail Sales Index show that furniture and lighting volumes fell by 3.7% year-on-year, while remaining flat month-on-month. However, sales value told a slightly more positive story in the short term, rising 4.1% compared to February, despite a 5.3% decline versus March 2025.
The divergence between volume and value suggests that while fewer goods may be sold overall, pricing effects or higher-value purchases are supporting revenue on a monthly basis.
Elsewhere in the retail sector, department stores recorded modest growth. Sales volumes increased by 0.8% month-on-month and 0.2% year-on-year, while values rose 1.7% monthly and 3.6% annually.
Across the broader retail landscape, performance remained stable. Total retail sales volumes edged up 0.2% in March and were 1.6% higher compared to the same period last year. In value terms, overall retail sales increased by 0.5% month-on-month and 3.8% annually.
The data reflects a cautious consumer environment, where spending patterns remain uneven. While furniture continues to face pressure on an annual basis, the monthly uplift in value may indicate improving confidence or seasonal demand beginning to emerge.
The figures underline the ongoing challenge for furniture retailers navigating fluctuating demand and changing consumer priorities in 2026.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com
