What: In March, Steen & Strøm exceeded its best monthly sales on record by as much as 20%. It followed the end of Norway’s Covid restrictions during February.

Why it is important: The sales jump came after major investments, including a repositioned main entrance that fronts Norway's busiest shopping street, plus the introduction of a new atrium and last year’s launch of its major new beauty hall.

The 225-year-old retailer enjoys over 2 million annual visitors and executive director David Wilkinson said: “We are encouraged by the recovery of footfall and sales revenue following the major investment made in the new entrance, escalator core and beauty hall. Oslo continues to develop as Scandinavia’s focus for leading luxury and premium brands. Our customers and teams are incredibly loyal and, combined with international tourists returning, we look forward to delivering a record summer season.”

Norwegian Retail overall has proved resilient during the pandemic and Steen & Strøm reported double-digit growth last summer.

Steen & Strøm beats sales records