Retail strong in June

WASHINGTON - Retail industry sales for June (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) rose 7.5 percent unadjusted over last year and increased 0.5 percent seasonally adjusted from May, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).

Sales at furniture and home furnishings stores rose 0.9 percent adjusted from the previous month and 4 percent over last year. Building materials and garden equipment and supplies dealers continued to see year-over-year growth with sales climbing 9.1 percent unadjusted over last June and rising 0.2 percent from May.

Growth was also seen in several other retail categories in June, including clothing and clothing accessories stores, which rose 1 percent adjusted from the previous month and climbed 9.3 percent unadjusted over last year. General merchandise stores, including department stores, also saw gains, with sales increasing 1.2 percent from May and rising 9.8 percent unadjusted over last June.