Retail sales on strong gains (AP) (11-03-2011)

WASHINGTON – Retail sales showed their largest gain in four months in February as shoppers stepped up purchases of autos, clothes and other goods.

Friday's report from the Commerce Department pointed to strong consumer spending and acceleration in economic growth in the first quarter.

Total retail sales rose 1.0 percent, the largest gain since October and the eighth straight monthly advance. The rise was in line with economists' expectations.

January sales were revised up to a 0.7 percent increase from a previously reported 0.3 percent gain. Compared to February last, sales were up 8.9 percent.

Excluding autos, sales rose 0.7 percent last month after gaining 0.6 percent in January.

Receipts at gasoline stations increased 1.4 percent after rising 1.3 percent in January. Excluding gasoline, sales rose 0.9 percent after rising 0.6 percent in January. Outside autos and gasoline, consumers also spent on clothing, lifting sales 0.8 percent.

Source: AP