Two reports out this morning point to a bounce in consumer activity over the summer months.
The latest monitor from Retail Ireland points to a boost in sales of almost 3.5% in the second three months of the year.
Another report, the latest Consumer Sentiment Monitor from KBC Bank and the ESRI, gives a pointer to sentiment at the other side of the cash register.
It showed sentiment rising in July to its highest level since March.
Economist Austin Hughes said there was an element of weather-inspired improvement in consumer sentiment.
"Normally it's not the case because the weather is so changeable here, the consumer is generally not affected by it. We did have exceptionally fine weather that was sustained and that changed behaviour to an extent. I would caution that these are likely to be temporary elements."
Mr Hughes also put forward the theory that consumers are focusing their spending now on months of heavy price discounting and that may have contributed to July's improved outcome.
"There's very strong competition from the high street and online. Consumers are buying because there are bargains to be had.
"July's outcome was the strongest monthly increase since January, which typically follows the Christmas sales. Consumers are concentrating on these times when they think they can get maximum bang for their buck," he explained.
The monitor also reflects consumer concerns around Brexit and other potential clouds on the economic horizon.
It reflects a cautiousness that's emerged in the consumer mindset since the downturn.
"There could be a permanent scarring there as people continue to get over the downturn both psychologically and financially. Consumers are very careful in what they spend. Behaviour has changed more generally. It's no longer conspicuous consumption. It's a case of being sensible with spending," he concluded.
