June increase in overall sales topped all estimates in a survey of economists

American retail sales rose unexpectedly in June, reflecting fairly broad gains across spending categories and wrapping up a solid quarter for household demand.

The value of overall retail purchases advanced 0.6 per cent last month following a downwardly revised 1.7 per cent drop in May, figures from America’s Commerce Department revealed today. Excluding autos, retail sales jumped 1.3 per cent in June.

The June increase in overall sales topped all estimates in a Bloomberg survey of economists. The value of retail sales has risen sharply this year, supported by government stimulus, elevated savings and vaccinations.

Consumers are beginning to shift more of their purchases toward services. Combined with still-solid retail demand, economists forecast household spending expanded at a robust pace in the second quarter.

Solid gains at electronics and appliance outlets

Bloomberg reports that nine of 13 retail categories posted increases in June sales, including solid gains at electronics and appliance outlets, clothing stores and restaurants. Sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers fell two per cent in June, likely in response to limited inventory as automakers face a supply chain crunch.

A global semiconductor shortage has restrained vehicle production and pushed up prices. The reopening of the economy, especially those businesses hit hardest by the absence of social activity during the pandemic, is helping bolster sales.

PepsiCo Inc. reported its fastest sales growth in at least a decade, benefiting from consumers returning to restaurants, bars and stadiums. Meanwhile, Olive Garden owner, Darden Restaurants Inc. boosted sales 80 per cent last quarter, returning to the revenue levels it saw before the pandemic.

The disaggregated sales figures show the following rise in retail sales:

• Clothing-store sales rose 2.6 per cent last month, and 47.1 per cent from a year ago
• Electronics sales increased 3.3 per cent and were up 37.3 per cent from June 2020
• Receipts at restaurants and bars climbed 2.3 per cent
• Sales at non-store retailers, which include e-commerce, advanced 1.2 per cent in June
• Gas station receipts climbed 2.5 per cent. The retail figures aren’t adjusted for price changes, so sales reflect both changes in costs and demand