Sales at sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores’ increased 0.3 percent seasonally over February, but were down 5.5 percent unadjusted year-over-year and lagged growth of the retail industry as a whole, according to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau.


 

The channel lagged sales growth in the broader retail sector, where retail sales excluding automobiles, gas stations and restaurants, increased 0.8 percent adjusted month-to-month and 1.6 percent unadjusted year-over-year, according to the National Retail Federation.


 


“Consumers shed their winter coats last month for fresh, spring merchandise,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “Retail sales increased in most categories and sectors as consumers took to stores to purchase new spring attire and home furnishings in hopeful expectation of warmer weather. Sales should continue to remain positive this spring with the approach of Easter and expected tax refunds.”


Earlier this month, NRF’s Easter Spending Survey forecast that the average American consumer will spend $137.46 this Easter holiday on clothing, candy, gifts and more, with total spending reaching $15.9 billion.


Total retail sales, which include categories such as automobiles, gasoline stations, and restaurants, increased 1.1 percent seasonally adjusted month-to-month, according to the Census Bureau. The Census also reported that retail sales increased 3.8 percent adjusted year-over-year.


“Improving economic conditions and consumer confidence should push consumers to return to spending habits this spring,” said NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz.


“Consumers released some pent-up demand in March after two consecutive months of harsh winter weather that not only hampered employment opportunities but also retail sales. We remain optimistic that retail sales will continue their positive march this spring.”


Additional findings from NRF’s retail sales report include:



  • Clothing and clothing accessories stores' sales increased 1.0 percent seasonally, adjusted month-to-month, yet decreased 2.3 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
  • Electronics and appliance stores’ sales decreased 1.6 percent seasonally, adjusted month-to-month, and 2 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
  • General merchandise stores’ sales increased 1.9 percent seasonally, adjusted month-to-month, yet decreased 0.2 percent unadjusted year-over-year.