NRF reports 2.5% in October retail sales

Strong retail sales in the month of October point to a good holiday sales season ahead. According to the National Retail Federation, October retail sales, excluding automobiles, gas stations and restaurants, increased 2.5% seasonally adjusted over September, and 4.2% unadjusted from 2012.



In a broader view, October retail sales released Wednesday by the U.S. Census Bureau, which include non-general merchandise categories such as automobiles, gasoline stations, and restaurants, increased 0.4% seasonally adjusted month-to-month, and 3.9% adjusted year-over-year.



“The ever-resilient consumer continues to deliver better economic news,” said NRF chief economist Jack Kleinhenz. “Various retail segments contributed to this month’s growth showing that there is an ongoing pent-up demand by consumers. Confidence and sales should continue to improve.”



Other findings from the September retail sales report include:

• Building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers stores’ sales decreased 1.9% seasonally adjusted yet increased 4.7% unadjusted year-over-year.


• Clothing and clothing accessories stores' sales increased 1.4% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 4.7% unadjusted year-over-year.



• General merchandise stores’ sales increased 0.2% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 1.4% unadjusted year-over-year.


• Electronics and appliance stores’ sales increased 1.4% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 5.6% unadjusted year-over-year.



• Furniture and home furnishing stores’ sales increased 1.0% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 8.2% unadjusted year-over-year.


• Health and personal care stores’ sales increased 0.5% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 5.9% unadjusted year-over-year.


• Sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores’ sales increased 1.6% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 5.4% unadjusted year-over-year.