Today, the United States Census Bureau released its Monthly Retail Trade Sales Report, showing that consumers increased their spending in June despite concerns about the cost of living and tariffs.
After a decline in sales during April and May, retail sales rebounded in June, exceeding expert predictions. Excluding autos and automotive parts, sales rose by 0.6%, according to the Commerce Department.
In its report, the Bureau stated: “Advance estimates of U.S. retail and food services sales for June 2025, adjusted for seasonal variation and holiday and trading-day differences, but not for price changes, were $720.1 billion, up 0.6 percent (±0.5 percent) from the previous month, and up 3.9 percent (±0.5 percent) from June 2024.”
“Total sales for the April 2025 through June 2025 period were up 4.1 percent (±0.4 percent) from the same period a year ago.”
According to the Bureau, there was widespread strength across various sectors. Clothing and accessories sales increased by 0.9%, while health and personal care sales grew by 0.5%.
Restaurant sales increased by 0.6%, and online retailers saw a 0.4% gain. Autos and auto parts dealers rebounded with a 1.2% rise.
Although overall retail sales have increased, many economists predict that consumers will reduce their spending in the coming months as the 10% duty on all imports, along with other tariffs, start to impact prices.
In a separate report released by the Labor Department on Tuesday, consumer prices increased by 2.7% in June, following a 0.1% rise the month before.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
