Retail sales in Ireland rose by 1.5% month-over-month in January 2026, the strongest increase since March 2024, following a revised 0.2% decrease in the prior month. The biggest increases in sales were seen for books, newspapers & stationery (+13.8%); hardware, paints & glass (+3.0%); clothing, footwear & textiles (+2.6%); and fuels (+2.0%). On the other hand, sales declined primarily for motor trades (-9.6%); pharmaceuticals, medical & cosmetic articles (-7.0%); and electrical goods (-2.8%). On a yearly basis, retail trade grew by 3%, the most in four months, after a revised 0.2% increase in the preceding month.