NRF: RETAIL SALES REBOUND IN JANUARY

WASHINGTON, D.C. — January retail sales increased slightly over the previous month, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).
Retail industry sales for January increased 0.5 percent seasonally adjusted from last month and decreased 2.1 percent unadjusted year-over-year. Additionally, U.S. Commerce Department totals show retail sales increased 1 percent seasonally adjusted from December but decreased 9.0 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
“While 2009 got off to a surprising start, it’s going to be difficult for retailers to maintain this momentum,” says Rosalind Wells, chief economist with NRF. “We expect the first half of the year to present challenges while giving way to sustained growth in the fourth quarter.”
Electronic and appliance stores sales increased 2.6 percent seasonally adjusted from last month but decreased 7.4 percent unadjusted year-over-year. Sales at clothing and clothing accessories stores increased 1.6 percent seasonally adjusted from December and decreased 8 percent unadjusted over last January.