# U.S. retail sales growth trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-retail-sales-growth-trends
> Updated: 2026-08-10T16:25:54.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

U.S. retail sales have demonstrated sustained growth through the mid-2026 period. In May, overall retail sales grew 9.2% year-on-year, a surge largely attributed to a 42.4% jump in fuel sales. During this period, large-surface retail outlets saw a 4.8% increase in sales at current prices, while the sector's labor index rose 5.2% year-on-year.

By July, retail sales had achieved ten consecutive months of growth. While year-over-year growth slowed compared to June, core retail sales—excluding restaurants, auto dealers, and gas stations—increased 0.3% month-over-month. Growth in July was led by electronics, appliance stores, and digital products, whereas building, garden supply, and sporting goods stores saw year-over-year declines. Additionally, mall foot traffic and average visit durations increased across outlet, indoor, and open-air shopping centers.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-10: U.S. retail sales grow for tenth consecutive month in July

U.S. retail sales rose for the tenth straight month in July, with total sales up 5.15 percent year-over-year, driven by steady wages and seasonal promotions despite broader economic fluctuations.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-retail-sales-grow-for-tenth-consecutive-month-in-july

### 2026-07-20: Retail sales at large stores rise 4.8% in May

May retail sales rose 9.2% YoY, led by a 42.4% fuel surge; large‑store sales up 4.8% and employment index up 5.2%, with women comprising two‑thirds of staff.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/retail-sales-at-large-stores-rise-48-in-may

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Cite as: U.S. retail sales growth trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-retail-sales-growth-trends