Retail Sales Report
Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce released its advanced retail sales report for September. This is always a good report to read. It provides useful information regarding the willingness of consumers to spend.
Consumers are still keeping a watchful eye on spending. Total retail sales declined 5.7 percent compared to last year. Industries experiencing the greatest decline were Autos, Building Materials, and Gasoline Stations. Positive sales growth occurred in Personal Care, Sporting Goods, General Merchandise, and Restaurants.
Highlights of the report are below. Please note that all percent changes are relative to September 2008.
- Total retail sales declined 5.7 percent.
- Motor vehicle and parts sales declined 9.3 percent.
- General merchandise sales rose 1.1 percent.
- Restaurant sales increased .6 percent.
- Gasoline sales dropped 25.3 percent.
- Building materials fell 13.0 percent.
The full report can be found here.
