Jewelry Sales Continue Decline at Japan's Dept Stores

Sales at Japan's department stores continued to slide in April, declining 3.7 percent to 484.6 billion yen ($5.24 billion), according to the Japan Department Stores Association. Jewelry, artwork and precious metals sales declined 1.8 percent, marking 38 consecutive months of shrinking sales.

The Association noted that while total jewelry sales declined, demand among wealthy consumers has been improving, a result of rising stock prices and improving corporate earnings.

The decline in total spending is a long lasting one, running 26 consecutive months so far. The Association pinned part of the decline on sluggish sales of spring clothing due to cold weather. Clothing sales declined 7.5 percent

Food sales improved by 0.6 percent this past month.