Retail sales increased 0.2% to $66.0 billion in May. Sales increased in five of nine subsectors and were led by increases at motor vehicle and parts dealers (+0.8%) and food and beverage retailers (+1.0%). Core retail sales—which exclude gasoline stations and fuel vendors and motor vehicle and parts dealers—were unchanged in May. In volume terms, retail sales increased 0.1%. Sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers (+0.8%) were up in May on the strength of higher sales at new car dealers (+0.7%) and other motor vehicle dealers (+5.5%). Gains at automotive parts, accessories and tire stores (+0.9%) were more than ... (full story)