Retail trade and food and beverage (F&B) services in Singapore experienced notable growth in March 2026, according to the latest Retail Sales Index (RSI) and Food & Beverage Services Index (FSI) released by the Singapore Business Review. Retail sales surged by 4.8% compared to March 2025, whilst F&B services saw a 2.3% increase over the same period.
The total retail sales value for March 2026 was estimated at $4.7b, with online sales accounting for 15.7% of this figure. Excluding motor vehicles, the retail sales value stood at $3.8b, with 18.9% derived from online transactions. Notably, the Computer & Telecommunications Equipment sector led online sales, comprising 59.9% of its total sales.
Within the retail sector, industries such as Recreational Goods and Motor Vehicles, Parts & Accessories saw significant year-on-year growth of 13.1% and 12.9%, respectively. However, sectors like Food & Alcohol and Department Stores experienced declines of 6.0% and 5.7%.
In the F&B sector, Food Caterers recorded a robust 13.7% increase in sales. Fast Food Outlets, Restaurants, and Cafes also reported growth, with increases of 4.8%, 1.7%, and 1.1%, respectively. Conversely, Food Courts & Other Eating Places saw a 1.5% decline in turnover.
The indices, which have been re-based to the year 2025, reflect the ongoing changes in Singapore’s retail and F&B landscapes, highlighting the growing importance of online sales channels.
