Retail sales rose by more than expected in September, with an increase of 0.4% exceeding economists expectations as the consumer showed signs of continued strength.

Total retail sales month-over-month were down .32% in September, but are up .55% from last September. Sales increased in five out of nine categories, including online sales, clothing and accessory stores, and health and personal care stores.

UK retail sales unexpectedly rise in September, with the fastest annual growth rate since February 2022 Computer and telecommunications sales boosted the data, while a decline in food sales was blamed on weather and by customers cutting back on more luxury items

Retail sales in the United States accelerated in September, according to government data released Thursday, a positive sign for consumption as the election approaches.

The Census Bureau's Advance Retail Sales Report for September revealed headline sales were up 0.4% last month.

Retail sales rose 0.4% from August to September, the Commerce Department said Thursday, up from 0.1% the previous month and the third straight increase. Online retailers, restaurants, and grocery stores all reported higher sales.