Story perspectives

US Retail Sales Dip Amid Harsh Winter, Resilient Demand

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

US retail sales fell 0.2% in January, the largest drop since May.
A measure of underlying demand rose 0.35%, indicating some resilience in spending.
The decline was attributed to low consumer confidence and severe winter weather, with most categories down led by department stores, personal care shops, and gas stations.
Economists expect larger tax refunds could boost spending in early 2026, despite concerns about a prolonged streak of weak consumer spending impacting economic growth.

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Story summary

US retail sales fell 0.2% in January, the largest drop since May.
A measure of underlying demand rose 0.35%, indicating some resilience in spending.
The decline was attributed to low consumer confidence and severe winter weather, with most categories down led by department stores, personal care shops, and gas stations.
Economists expect larger tax refunds could boost spending in early 2026, despite concerns about a prolonged streak of weak consumer spending impacting economic growth.