The National Retail Federation said retail sales – excluding autos, gas and restaurants – decreased a fraction of a percent over May, but increased 3.3% over June of last year.
And the U.S. Commerce Department reported sales – including autos, gas and restaurants – decreased a fraction of a percent for the month, but increased 4.9% for year-over-year-year.
“Today”s data shows consumers continue to take a cautious approach towards shopping,” said Matt Shay, president and CEO of the NRF. “However, growth in key areas such as electronics, apparel and department stores is an encouraging sign as we enter the back-to-school shopping season.”
Sales in electronics increased 1.3% for the month and 7.6% for the year, said the NRF. Furniture and home furnishing sales decreased 1.1%over May, but increased 2.1% over last year.
Monthly clothing and accessory sales increased a fraction of a percent, while yearly increased 6.1%.