Department stores in Japan have continued a streak of brisk results amid an influx of foreign shoppers. Sales in September climbed from a year ago for the 31st straight month. But rising prices also weighed on some purchases.
Department stores saw total sales of more than 420 billion yen, or over 2.7 billion dollars, which is more than a 2 percent increase from the same month last year.
The figure rose as shoppers snatched up luxury items including high-end brand bags and watches.
Sales of duty-free goods soared over 21 percent to almost 40 billion yen, or about 260 million dollars.
Meanwhile, purchases of food items continued on a downward trend as prices rose.
Sales of fresh food declined for the six straight month, with prepared items falling for the third month in a row.
The Japan Department Stores Association says major exchange rate fluctuations could affect sales of duty-free goods going forward.