World

US retail sales continue to rise

Jun 18, 2026 United States

According to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, retail sales rose for the eighth consecutive month in May, despite high gas prices and ongoing inflation

US retail sales accelerated in May, with total sales excluding auto dealers and gas stations rising by 0.42% from April and by 7.19% from a year earlier, according to the Retail Monitor, released by the National Retail Federation (NRF). That marked an improvement from April’s 0.3% monthly gain and 5.7% annual increase.

Core retail sales, which also exclude restaurants, increased by 0.39% month-on-month and by 6.98% year-on-year, up from April’s monthly growth of 0.34% and annual growth of 5.53%.

Overall, during the first five months of the year, total sales saw an increase of 6.29% compared to the same period last year, with core sales rising by 6.19%.

“Retail sales maintained momentum in May, driven by a resilient labor market and consumers’ continued willingness to spend on retail goods despite pressure from elevated gas prices, tariffs and the conflict in the Middle East”, concluded NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay.

The data also shows that clothing and accessories stores continued to grow in April, with sales rising by 10.25% year-on-year and by 0.60% month-on-month. This category was one of the top performers in the retail sector, alongside electronics and appliance stores, which recorded an 11.59% year-on-year increase in sales, and health and personal care stores, which saw an 8.87% year-on-year increase.

“As support from this year’s large tax refunds fades, consumers are prioritizing essentials and finding creative ways to stretch their household budgets.To support them, retailers are actively engaging their supply chains and supplier networks to keep prices affordable”, added Shay.

Image Credits: chicagoyimby.com

United States Fashion Organisations Retail Sales