Though September sales gains were moderate, they were better than expected, giving retailers a welcome surprise as they head into the ever-important holiday season.
According to the National Retail Federation, retail industry sales for September (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) rose 2.2 percent unadjusted over last year and 0.2 percent seasonally adjusted from August.
September retail sales released by the U.S. Commerce Department show total retail sales (which include non-general merchandise categories such as autos, gasoline stations and restaurants) increased 0.6 percent seasonally adjusted from last month and 2.9 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
“Consumer spending continues to be restrained in most areas,” said NRF Chief Economist Rosalind Wells. “Although sales across the board show modest increases, consumers are certainly spending more cautiously.”
While some categories fared well, unusually warm weather didn't help clothing and clothing accessories retailers whose sales increased a meager 0.3 percent unadjusted year-over-year and decreased 0.4 percent seasonally adjusted from August.
Consumer demand for popular electronics such as cell phones and MP3 players helped boost electronics and appliance stores sales 0.9 percent seasonally adjusted from August and 3.4 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
Health and personal care stores also showed strength with seasonally adjusted sales from last month increasing 1.0 percent and 4.1 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
marketing@alchempro.com
