AHMA sales survey holds steady

A survey of members of the American Hardware Manufacturers Association (AHMA) shows more than half are ahead of year-ago sales levels

The AHMA’s survey for April found that comparing current sales levels with year-ago levels, 56% of respondents said sales were higher in April versus year-ago levels.

The 56% figure is down slightly from March, when 58% said sales were higher than the year-ago period.

Also for April, 25% reported sales were even, and 19% said sales were below year-ago levels. 

AHMA CEO Tim Farrell pointed to the relatively weak home improvement retail sales, based on government data. “Sales of home improvement products through retail channels in the U.S. are up about 2.6% on an adjusted basis this year versus last year, according to data compiled by the Department of Commerce. Total retail sales for all kinds of businesses are up 3.7%. These figures illustrate why many of our members continue to struggle to attain the robust sales levels they have enjoyed in past years.” 

Looking forward one year, 56% of respondents project sales will be higher, down from 79% who felt that way in March.