Mexico’s retail sector is experiencing a slowdown, and this could impact how you shop. Consumers are spending less, affecting stores across the country.

Slower Growth in Retail Sales

In May 2026, same-store sales in Mexico grew by only 0.8%, marking the slowest growth for this month since 2013. This sharp decline from the previous year’s 10.3% highlights a significant shift in consumer behavior. The National Association of Self-Service and Department Stores (ANTAD) noted that weaker consumer confidence, slower wage increases, and reduced domestic consumption contribute to this downturn. Total retail sales, inclusive of new stores, did rise 3% to approximately MX$150.4 billion, but that still shows only a modest improvement in a challenging market.

Interestingly, the effects of this slowdown are uneven. Department stores such as Liverpool and Sears reported declines of over 4% in same-store sales, contradicting a recovery observed in April. In contrast, self-service retailers like Chedraui and specialized retailers like pharmacies showed resilience, with some even achieving over 5% growth.

ANTAD’s Response

In light of these challenges, ANTAD is advising retailers to adapt their strategies. At the Mexico E-Commerce and Retail Summit 2026, ANTAD’s Executive President, Diego Cosío, laid out a roadmap urging retailers to diversify revenue sources and improve their digital presence. This long-term strategy is crucial as the retail environment continues to evolve and adjust toward more online and omnichannel shopping experiences.

According to Cosío, six main factors, including changing consumer behavior and technological advances, are influencing the retail landscape. Retailers must move away from purely transactional relationships with customers and focus on building loyalty and personal connections.

Future Trends and Growth Expectations

As retailers look towards the future, they must prioritize improving customer relationships and redefining their service offerings. The emphasis on omnichannel experiences—finding a seamless integration between digital and physical shopping—is becoming essential. The ability to offer a variety of products and services across multiple platforms could be key to survival through 2030.

As per market research, 73% of Mexican consumers are already shopping across more than six different channels. This represents a major shift in how and where people buy their goods, creating both challenges and new opportunities for retailers.

E-commerce is expected to be a crucial component of retail growth moving forward. Mexico’s online sales could reach US$63.71 billion by 2025, surpassing forecasts for other North American nations. Mobile shopping is also on the rise, indicating a need for retailers to enhance their digital strategies.

Adapting to Changing Shopping Habits

The rise of mobile shopping and social media platforms highlights the importance of being adaptable in the modern retail environment. Companies must be prepared to meet customer needs through various digital channels, particularly as app usage continues to trend upward. Popular categories for mobile purchases include clothing, food, and personal care items.

As retailers pivot in response to these shifts, the focus on innovative business models that blend traditional retail with technology becomes imperative. Establishing data-driven customer relationships holds the promise of greater loyalty and enhanced brand value.

What this means for you

The retail landscape in Mexico is evolving, which means how you shop will change, too. Keep an eye on how retailers adapt to include more digital options and personalized service. If you ever need to review terms of purchase or any retail agreements, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can help translate it into plain English in seconds.

Source: https://mexicobusiness.news/trade-and-investment/news/antad-calls-retail-reinvention-consumption-slows