ABS figures released yesterday showed the state’s total spend was up 0.1 per cent from December and 1.7 per cent on the same time last year – a $7.7 million rise.

The biggest turnover for January was in the food retail sector, with $206.5 million spent for the month, up 6.5 per cent from January 2014.

People also spent 5.2 per cent more on household goods this January for a $90.5 million turnover.

However, money spent on clothing, footwear and accessories dropped 13.4 per cent to $30.3 million compared to January 2014, while there was also a 3.4 per cent fall in the cafe, restaurant and takeaway sector.

Treasurer Peter Gutwein said the growth reflected Tasmania’s  business confidence, and showed the success of  programs such as Your Purchase Has Power.

The trend estimate for Australian retail turnover rose 0.2 per cent in January 2015 following a 0.2 per cent rise in December 2014.