U.S. retail sales rose slightly in June, with consumer demand for some categories weakening

It is learned that according to foreign media reports, US retail sales saw a slight increase in June as consumers continued to shop.

According to the National Retail Federation, retail sales in June rose 0.4% from the previous month and were up 3.3% from a year ago (excluding auto dealers, gas stations and restaurants). In May, retail sales rose 0.4% from the previous month and 4.4% from a year ago.

Separately, the Commerce Department reported that overall retail sales in June were up 0.2% from May and 1.5% from a year ago (including auto dealerships, gas stations and restaurants).

Data showed that driven by strong online sales, sales in five of the nine retail categories increased month-on-month in June, and sales in six categories increased year-on-year.

Here’s how each retail category performed in June:

• Online and other non-store sales increased 1.9% month-over-month and 9.9% year-over-year.

• Sales at health and personal care stores increased 0.1% month-over-month and 6.6% year-over-year.

• Electronics and appliance stores increased 1.1% month-on-month and decreased 1.8% year-on-year.

• Department stores fell 0.1% month-on-month but increased 1.4% year-on-year.

• Clothing and accessories stores increased by 0.6% month-on-month and decreased by 1.3% year-on-year

• Grocery and beverage stores fell 0.7% month-on-month but increased 1.3% year-on-year.

• Sporting goods stores fell 1% month-on-month and 0.9% year-on-year.

• Furniture and home furnishings stores fell 1.4% month-over-month and 3.6% year-over-year.

• Building materials and garden supply stores fell 1.2% month-over-month and 3.7% year-over-year.

“Consumers are spending at a slower pace, but they are still in control of the direction of their personal economies because of a growing labor market and ample savings,” said NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz. “If consumers have jobs, they are willing to spend. Overall, consumers’ balance sheets remain strong, and they have enough money to support spending for much of the rest of the year.”

Editor ✎ Nicole/

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