U.S. retail sales rise for sixth straight month

Americans spent more on autos, furniture and clothing at the start of the crucial holiday shopping season, boosting retail sales for a sixth straight month. Retail sales rose 0.2% in November, the Commerce Department reported today. That’s lower than October’s gain, which was revised higher to show a 0.6% increase. Still, more spending on retail goods is the latest sign that the U.S. economy continues to grow at a slow but steady pace. Sales rose at electronics and appliance stores, auto dealers, clothing stores and department stores. But sales fell at building materials stores, gas stations and grocery stores. Americans spent $52.4 billion over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, according to the National Retail Federation. The record amount was spurred by deep discounts and early store openings. Sales for 21 chain stores rose last month, the International Council of Shopping Centers reports. Online holiday sales are also growing, although they are expected to peak this week. Merchants can make up to 40% of their annual revenue during the holiday shopping season, which includes November and December. Read the full story from The Associated Press here.