American consumer returns` - retail up a fourth month

OCTOBER marked the fourth consecutive month of gains for American retailers, according to the US Commerce Department.

"The American consumer has returned," said Retail Industry Leaders Association president Sandy Kennedy. "With four consecutive months of sales gains, retailers are happy to turn the page and embrace a more optimistic future."


Unemployment, the big anchor on retail sales, appeared to ease in October with job gains of 151,000 - of which 159,000 came from the private sector, noted American Shipper.


Retail sales increased 1.2 per cent over September sales and 7.3 per cent year on year in October, excluding auto parts, which increased 0.4 per cent over September and were up six per cent year on year.


In the non-auto area, building supplies were strongest in October, up 1.9 per cent against September, and increased 12.2 per cent year on year. Clothing and sporting goods were up 6.7 per cent year on year and increased 3.5 per cent month to month.