Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?

Retail sales jump in May on auto sales

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

By MARTIN CRUTSINGER
AP Economics Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Americans stepped up spending at retail businesses in May at the best pace in three months, fueled by more car purchases. The gain shows consumers remain resilient despite higher taxes and could drive faster growth later this year.

The Commerce Department says retail sales increased 0.6 percent in May from April. That's up from a 0.1 percent gain the previous month.

The April gain was led by a 1.8 percent jump in auto sales, the biggest increase in six months. Sales were also up at hardware and general merchandise stores but down at furniture and appliance stores.

Excluding volatile autos, gas and building supplies, core retail sales rose 0.3 percent, slightly higher than the 0.2 percent April increase.