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U.S. Retail Sales Growth Slows to 0.1% in April as Sector Trends Diverge

Consumer spending showed resilience in dining and home improvement but weakened in autos, gas, and discretionary categories, reflecting post-tariff dynamics and economic pressures.

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Overview

  • Retail sales increased by a modest 0.1% in April, following a 1.7% surge in March as consumers rushed to make purchases ahead of anticipated tariffs.
  • Spending at restaurants and bars rose 1.2% in April, while sales at garden centers and home improvement outlets grew by 0.8%.
  • Declines were observed in gas station sales (down 0.5%), car dealerships (down 0.1%), and discretionary categories such as clothing and sporting goods stores.
  • Economists warn that tariff-induced price increases, higher borrowing costs, and slowing employment gains could further dampen consumer spending in the coming months.
  • Retail sales remain a key measure of the economic impact of tariffs, with April’s data highlighting both short-term resilience and emerging signs of consumer fatigue.