In an attempt of attracting more and more customers, a number of stores in Australia have disclosed their mid-year sales figures. They aim at clearing the old stocks as early as possible.

These departmental stores began with their annual stocktake sales yesterday, coupled with the release of their retail sales figures showcasing their performances.

The net retail sales in the country surged by 0.6% in April, while the turnover in grocery stores dropped by 2.4%, during the month.

In April 2008, the departmental stores suffered a massive 4.7% dip in sales worth $1.6 billion.

David Jones last night opened its mid-year sale to VIP customers ahead of the disclosure to the public, claiming that it had discounted 130,000 pairs of shoes, 30,000 handbags, 60,000 men's shirts and 170,000 towels.

Group General Manager Stores, Paul Zahra shared that the retailers offered discount up to 60% as the summer stock begun to arrive in July.

"It's great for the customer and we want the sales and don't want the back stock. Sales are becoming a bigger part of consumer behavior," he said.

However, the Australian Retailers Association dismissed the result declaring it appalling.