Go to your newsagency software and select the Monthly Sales Comparison Report.
Despite its name, the Monthly Sales Comparison Report is highly flexible. You can compare any two time periods—be it one month versus another, a specific quarter, or year-on-year performance. Today, select January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025 and for the second date range, select January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024. Tick the category box.
Understanding the Results
The report is presented in three clear sections:
- Period One (The Left Column): Displays the data for your most recent selected date range.
- Period Two (The Middle Column): Displays the data for the earlier period you are using as a benchmark.
- Variance (The Right Column): This is where the magic happens. It shows the growth or decline in both quantity sold and dollar value, expressed as both a raw number and a percentage.
At the bottom of the report, you will find a comprehensive “Total” section. This provides a snapshot of your overall business health, including total sales (both including and excluding GST), the number of transactions, average sale values, and average items per sale.
Using Data for Goal Setting
Data is most valuable when it informs action. By reviewing your performance from the previous year, you can set realistic, data-driven targets for your team. For example, if your “Cards & Wrap” department performed well last January, you might set a goal to increase those sales by another 10% this year.
In seconds you can understand how 2025 went for you. What this report shows is more useful today than a profit and low statement or other reports from your accountant months down the track.
You need this analysis now. It can feed into business decisions you can make today.
If you’d like me to take a look at your report, save it as a PDF and email it to me at mark@newsxpress.com.au.