Manufacturing sales rose 1.6% to $51.6 billion in May, the fourth increase in five months. The gain was largely due to higher sales in the petroleum and coal product and motor vehicle industries. Sales rose in 11 of 21 industries, representing about 61% of the manufacturing sector. Constant dollar sales were also up 1.6% in May, indicating a rise in the volume of goods sold. In the petroleum and coal product industry, sales increased 7.2% to $7.4 billion in May. The gain reflected a return to more normal sales levels at several refineries following partial shutdowns in April for maintenance and retooling work. Sales ... (full story)