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February retail sales reveal moderate gains

Adobe Stock

March 20, 2026

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Retail sales grew again in February and data revealed strong increases year over year, according to a report from the National Retail Federation and CNBC.

The CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, reported total retail sales, excluding auto deals and gas station, were up 0.28% compared to January and 6.24% year over year, according to a press release.

"Despite harsh winter weather, consumer spending grew once again in February, supported by continued wage gains and overall low unemployment levels," NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said in the release. "This was the fifth consecutive month that sales rose from the month before, and year-over-year gains were strong. With renewed fighting in the Middle East and its impact on global economies, retailers remain heavily focused on delivering products at competitive prices to value conscious consumers."

Total sales were up 6.04% year over year for the first two months of the year, and core sales were up 5.76%.

February sales were up in all but one of nine categories on a yearly basis, led by clothing stores, health and personal care stores and general merchandise stores.