K Group's retail sales in Finland's Kymenlaakso region reached 223 million euros during the first three quarters. The cooperative saw modest growth of 0.3% compared to the same period last year.
Auto parts and hardware stores drove the strongest performance in the region. Building and technical equipment sales increased by 2.7% to 43.2 million euros. Auto and sports retail grew by 4.0% to 36.3 million euros.
Grocery sales remained the largest category at 143.4 million euros.
Regional director Mika Sivula said the improved performance signals a long-awaited economic recovery. "We consider K Group's performance in the current auto trade market situation remarkably strong in Kymenlaakso too," Sivula stated in a press release.
Several K-market stores in the region underwent major renovations recently. A completely rebuilt K-market Vahtero opened in Kouvola during the summer after being closed for a year. Another K-market in Kotka's Mussalo district reopened in early October following extensive renovations.
The K-market Erkinkulma in Kotka remains closed for renovations until early spring.
Citymarket stores showed particularly strong sales growth in the grocery sector. Customers have responded positively to the newly renovated stores, according to company statements.
While the growth numbers appear modest, they represent a positive turn for the regional economy after several difficult years. The consistent performance across multiple retail categories suggests genuine consumer confidence returning to southeastern Finland.