NRF: May retail sales jump 4.8% year-over-year

Washington, D.C. -- The National Retail Federation reported Thursday that retail sales in May increased 0.6% seasonally adjusted from April and rose 4.8% unadjusted year-over-year.



The results, which excluded automobiles, gas stations and restaurants, were boosted by improved consumer confidence and spending.



“The American consumer continues to drive the U.S. economy,” said Matthew Shay, NRF president and CEO. “In spite of fluctuating gas prices, severe weather in much of the country and fiscal policy uncertainty, consumers continue to demonstrate an inherent resiliency and flexibility.”



May retail sales, released earlier Thursday by the U.S. Department of Commerce, showed that total retail and food services sales (which include non-general merchandise categories such as automobiles, gasoline stations, and restaurants) increased 0.6% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and increased 4.3% adjusted year-over-year.





Other findings from the May retail sales report include the following unadjusted, year-over-year results:

• Building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers stores’ sales surged 9.3%;


• Clothing and clothing accessories stores' sales increased a robust 4.8%;


• Electronics and appliance stores’ sales dipped 0.2%;


• Furniture and home furnishing stores’ sales edged up 0.1%;


• General merchandise stores’ sales increased 2.3%;


• Health and personal care stores’ sales increased 0.5%;


• Nonstore retailers’ sales surged 11.5%; and


• Sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores’ sales increased 1.8%.