Both the volume and value of retail sales grew in December when compared to the same month of 2013, according to the Central Statistics Office.
The volume of sales was 5.1% higher year-on-year during the month and up 0.5% when compared to November.
Excluding motor sales, the figures were 4.8% higher year-on-year, and up 1.9% on the previous month.
The value of sales was 2.3% higher when compared to December 2013 and up 0.1% on the previous month.
Excluding motor sales, values were 1.7% higher in the year and 0.9% higher compared to November.
Pharmaceuticals, medical and cosmetic items saw the biggest monthly increase in volume, up 4.5%, while hardware, paints and glass sales rose by 3.9%.
Furniture and lighting products saw the biggest monthly drop, with volumes down 2.3%, while clothing, footwear and textile sales fell 1.1%.
Hardware, paints and glass saw the biggest monthly increase in value terms, up 3.6% in the month, while the value of department store sales grew by 2.4%.
The value of furniture and lighting sales fell by 2.4% in the month, while books, newspapers stationery and other goods fell by 2.3%.
