WASHINGTON — U.S. retail sales increased in May, extending a series of monthly gains and indicating continued consumer spending as policymakers and businesses monitored broader economic recovery efforts, according to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Wednesday.
Advance estimates from the Commerce Department showed retail and food services sales rose from the previous month, marking a fourth consecutive monthly increase. The report, released on June 17, covered sales activity in May and pointed to gains across several major retail categories, including motor vehicle dealers and online retailers.
The increase came as consumers continued to spend despite elevated inflation pressures earlier in the year and higher fuel costs linked to disruptions in global energy markets. Government data indicated that spending at gasoline stations also contributed to the monthly rise in overall sales.
“Consumer spending remains resilient,” economists cited in market reports said, while noting that household demand has continued to support economic activity even as some sectors face cost pressures.
According to the Census Bureau, retail sales were higher than in the same month a year earlier. Sales excluding gasoline stations also advanced, suggesting that spending growth was not limited to fuel purchases. Online retailers, clothing stores and furniture outlets were among the sectors reporting gains, while some categories, including electronics and certain food-service establishments, recorded weaker results.
The retail sales report is closely watched because consumer spending accounts for a large share of U.S. economic activity. Recent government data have shown continued hiring and steady household consumption, factors that have helped support growth during the recovery period.
Business groups said the latest figures reflected sustained demand from consumers, while some economists cautioned that future spending patterns would depend on inflation trends, labor-market conditions and borrowing costs. Several analysts also noted that seasonal factors, including tax refund payments, may have supported spending during the spring months.
Federal Reserve officials have continued to monitor incoming economic data as they assess price developments and overall economic conditions. The central bank has repeatedly stated that future policy decisions will depend on economic indicators and inflation readings.
The latest retail sales figures were released alongside other economic reports showing continued activity in parts of the U.S. economy. Commerce Department data published this week also indicated rising business inventories, while housing-related reports pointed to increased contract signings for home purchases.
As of Wednesday, federal officials had not announced any revisions to the retail sales data, and the Census Bureau said subsequent reports may update the advance estimates as additional information becomes available.
