Retail sales by sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores decreased 0.1 percent seasonally-adjusted month-to-month in May, but increased 9.1 percent unadjusted year-over-year, according to estimated released by the U.S. Department of Commerce.


That compared to May a 0.2 percent month-to-month decline in total retail and food services sales (which includes non-general merchandise categories such as automobiles, gasoline stations, and restaurants). Again, such sales increased 7.1 percent unadjusted year-over-year.

 

The National Retail Federation estimated May retail sales (excluding automobile, gas stations and restaurants) decreased 0.3 percent seasonally adjusted from April, but increased 4.8 percent unadjusted year-over-year, marking 23 consecutive months of retail sales growth.

 

“As the first industry to feel any backlash from consumers’ attitudes about the revival of the economy, retailers are far from discouraged by May’s sales report, it’s evident that consumers are simply taking a breath,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “Going forward, retailers will make sure to keep a steady eye on key economic indicators, being cautious with inventory and promotions as back to school – the second biggest time of the year – approaches.”

 


“This economy thus far is working like an old machine with many fits, starts and even some sputtering,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. “Overall though, consumers are benefiting from the slow but steady decline in gasoline prices and we expect growth will resume, and should pick up through the fall.”


Other findings from the U.S. Department of Commerce May retail sales report include:



  • Clothing and clothing accessories stores' sales increased 0.9 percent seasonally-adjusted month-to-month and increased 7.3 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
  • Electronics and appliance stores’ sales increased 0.8 percent seasonally-adjusted month-to-month and 1.2 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
  • Furniture and home furnishing stores’ sales increased 0.4 percent seasonally-adjusted month-to-month and 11.4 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
  • Health and personal care stores’ sales decreased 0.1 percent seasonally-adjusted month-to-month but increased 3.1 percent unadjusted year-over-year.