Retail sales were relatively unchanged in October, holding at $42.8 billion. Lower sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers and gasoline stations offset higher sales in most other subsectors. Gains were reported in 6 of 11 subsectors, representing 42% of retail trade. After removing the effects of price changes, retail sales in volume terms were relatively unchanged. Following two months of declines, building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers (+2.0%) registered the largest increase among all subsectors. Sales at electronics and appliance stores (+3.2%) advanced for the fifth consecutive month for the ... (full story)