Retail sales across Europe returned to growth in October, following a surprise drop in the previous month. Compared to September, sales in the 18-member euro area rose by 0.4%, while sales in the 28-member EU block was up 0.7%. Meanwhile, on a year-on-year basis, sales were up 1.4% in the euro area and by 2.0% in the EU. 
Sales of food, drinks & tobacco were flat in the euro area and rose by 0.1% in the EU, compared to September. On an annual basis, such sales were up 0.4% in the euro area and by 0.9% in the EU, respectively. 
Once again, growth was stronger in sales of non-food products. Compared to September, sales rose by 0.7% in the euro area and by 1.2% in the EU; and compared to October 2013, sales were up 2.1% in the euro area and by 3.1% in the EU, respectively.

Source: www.kamcity.com