Overview
- Scentia’s August 2026 survey shows mass‑consumption sales fell 0.7% in August and have dropped 2.7% year‑to‑date, signaling continued contraction in the sector.
- Online sales expanded strongly with e‑commerce up 36.9% year‑on‑year in August and about 35.9% for the first eight months of 2026, making it the fastest‑growing channel.
- Most physical channels recorded declines in August, with supermarket chains down 3.3% year‑on‑year and wholesalers and kiosks also negative, while pharmacies were the only in‑person channel to rise by 1.2%.
- Perishable foods were the hardest hit, falling 8.7% in August and 6.1% year‑to‑date, while some beverage lines and hygiene/cosmetic items grew, especially through online platforms.
- Official INDEC inflation data (1.7% in August; 33.5% year‑on‑year) helps explain the shift to online promotions, card financing and home delivery, and suggests any retail recovery will depend on improving real incomes and lower inflation.