JOHANNESBURG - South African consumers showed signs of life at the checkout counter, but Middle East tensions are casting a shadow over the outlook.
New NielsenIQ figures show shoppers spending more than R173-billion on fast-moving consumer goods in the first three months of the year.
This was supported by softer food inflation and lower fuel costs.
Snacks are among the biggest winners, with strong growth as shoppers continue to treat themselves despite tight budgets.
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Meanwhile, categories such as beverages, liquor and tobacco all posted strong growth.
Traditional retailers like spaza shops and independent stores are once again outperforming larger retail chains in several categories.
But that relief may be short-lived.
Rising fuel prices and expected inflation could make the second half of the year much tougher for both retailers and consumers.