Credit Suisse publishes today its annual „Retail outlook“ study in collaboration with consultancy firm Fuhrer & Hotz. Despite a buoyant economy, the Swiss retail trade saw only a slight increase in sales in 2018. As for 2019, Credit Suisse economists expect growth in the retail sector to be just as sluggish as last year. Robust labour market conditions and an expected increase in purchasing power are likely to provide a positive impetus. On the flipside, competitive pressure due to the growth in cross-border online trade should continue to increase. This will squeeze prices and lead to a loss of market share.