Consumer Behavior

Severe winter weather boosts online retail activity

Adobe Stock

March 11, 2026

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The country's severe winter weather proved to be a boon to online retail which experienced a 1.9% sales jump in January.

Overall retail sales dipped 0.2% in the month, according to a Commerce Department report, and were due to a decline at car and car parts dealerships as well as a drop of sales at gas stations.

The federal agency's report was delayed due to the recent government shutdown, according to an AP News report.