NRF: Retail sales climb in March

Washington, D.C. – Spurred by warmer spring weather, U.S. retail sales, which exclude automobiles, gas stations and restaurants, increased 0.8% adjusted month-to-month in March and 1.6% unadjusted year-over-year, according to estimates from the National Retail Federation (NRF).



“Improving economic conditions and consumer confidence should push consumers to return to spending habits this spring,” NRF chief economist Jack Kleinhenz said. “Consumers released some pent-up demand in March after two consecutive months of harsh winter weather that not only hampered employment opportunities but also retail sales. We remain optimistic that retail sales will continue their positive march this spring.”



Additional findings from NRF’s retail sales report include:



• Building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers stores’ sales increased 1.8% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 6.2% unadjusted year-over-year.



• Clothing and clothing accessories stores' sales increased 1% seasonally adjusted month-to-month yet decreased 2.3% unadjusted year-over-year.



• Electronics and appliance stores’ sales decreased 1.6% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 2% unadjusted year-over-year.



• Furniture and home furnishing stores’ sales increased 1% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 1% unadjusted year-over-year.



• General merchandise stores’ sales increased 1.9% seasonally adjusted month-to-month yet decreased 0.2% unadjusted year-over-year.



• Health and personal care stores’ sales increased 0.3% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 4% unadjusted year-over-year.



• Sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores’ sales increased 0.3% seasonally adjusted month-to-month yet decreased 5.5% unadjusted year-over-year.