November Sales Rose 1 Percent

U.S. retailers saw sales rise more than expected in November as consumers spent more on gasoline and a wide range of other goods, according to the latest report from the Commerce Department.

According to the release, total retail sales increased 1.3 percent last month, after rising 1.1 percent in October. It was the second straight monthly gain. (Sales in October were previously reported to have increased 1.4 percent but that figure was revised).

Reuters reports that the rise beat analysts forecast, which predicted retail sales would grow by 0.7 percent in November.
Strong sales were attributed to sales at gasoline stations and increased purchases of motor vehicles and parts and building materials. The electronic and appliances sector saw sales jump 2.8 percent, the largest increase since January. Excluding motor vehicles and parts, retail sales increased 1.2 percent in November, the largest increase since January.