FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
CONTACT OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
202-482-4883
The Commerce Department’s U.S. Census Bureau today released retail sales data
for January 2011. Retail sales rose 0.3 percent in January. This figure was
slightly below private-sector expectations of a 0.6-percent gain. Excluding
automobiles, retail sales grew 0.3 percent in January. Sales at motor vehicle
dealers increased 0.6 percent.
“Retail sales, along with other indicators
of consumer spending, continues to show growth following strong gains in the
second half of 2010,” U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said. “The Middle Class
Tax Relief Act, which began to take effect in January, will further boost
consumer confidence by putting more money into the pockets of the American
people and supporting the long-term recovery of our nation’s economy, including
job growth.”
Report (PDF)
