A decline in cross-border trade led to increased grocery store and alcohol sales in Norway last year

Sales in Norwegian grocery stores and alcohol sales increased by 18% in 2020 as a result of corona restrictions and reduced cross-border trade.

Closed borders, no tax-free shopping, and restrictions in the restaurant industry led to an increase in sales of groceries and alcohol of 18% compared with the previous year, figures from Statistics Norway (SSB) show. Norwegians ate at home rather than in canteens and restaurants.

Higher prices accounted for some of the increased turnover, but the main reason was the greater volume. Norwegians shopped 14% more than in 2019.

The largest increase was in the border regions. Halden had a turnover increase of 48%, while the turnover in Fredrikstad / Sarpsborg increased by 41%.

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