Retail sales were down by just over one-quarter (-26.4%) in April to $34.7 billion and have fallen by one-third (-33.6%) since physical distancing measures were implemented in mid-March. Motor vehicle and parts dealers took the largest hit in April, while online sales surged to a record high, representing 9.5% of the total retail market. By way of comparison, retail sales (-17.1%) fell in the United States in April and like Canada, sales were down in all 11 comparable subsectors (see Note to readers). While essential retailers such as supermarkets and other grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, gasoline ... (full story)