News

NRF: June retail sales mark twelve consecutive months of growth

July 13, 2011

Warm weather, lower gas costs and strong Father's Day promotions put consumers in a spending mood in June, boosting retail sales for the 12th consecutive month and surpassing many analysts' expectations. According to the National Retail Federation, retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) in June increased 0.3 percent seasonally adjusted from May and 5.5 percent unadjusted year-over-year.

"A solid year of growth in sales provides further evidence that retailers continue to lead the charge in the economic recovery," said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. "While spending continues to surpass expectations, sustained growth in the retail sector depends on a strong labor market."

"With the summer season well underway, retailers are hoping this momentum continues through the back to school season," said NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz. "Knowing that shoppers remain concerned about the economy, companies have already begun offering aggressive promotions to entice shoppers."

June retail sales released today by the U.S. Commerce Department show total retail sales (which include non-general merchandise categories such as autos, gasoline stations and restaurants) increased 0.1 percent seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 8.4 percent unadjusted year-over-year.

Specific sales results include:

• The onset of summer helped boost sales of apparel and garden equipment and supplies. Clothing and clothing accessories stores' sales increased 0.7 percent seasonally adjusted over May and a solid 7.6 percent unadjusted year-over-year. Sales at building material and garden equipment stores increased 1.3 percent seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 8.5 percent unadjusted over last year.
• Sales at electronic and appliance stores decreased 0.2 percent seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 2.3 percent unadjusted from last year. Home furnishings stores sales decreased 0.8 percent seasonally adjusted over May and increased 0.2 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
• Health and personal care stores sales decreased 0.2 percent seasonally adjusted over May but increased 3.9 percent unadjusted year-over-year.