Story perspectives

Canada's Retail Sales Up 1.1% in January 2026

3/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

In January 2026, Canada's retail sales rose 1.1% to $70.7 billion, boosted by motor vehicle and parts dealers up 2%.
Six of nine subsectors advanced, with Alberta leading growth at 3.5%.
Core retail sales excluding gasoline and motor vehicles rose 0.9%, and e-commerce sales increased 1.5% to $4.4 billion.
An early February estimate indicates a further 0.9% increase, suggesting a positive start to the year for consumer spending, though the figure may be revised.

1 of 1

Story summary

In January 2026, Canada's retail sales rose 1.1% to $70.7 billion, boosted by motor vehicle and parts dealers up 2%.
Six of nine subsectors advanced, with Alberta leading growth at 3.5%.
Core retail sales excluding gasoline and motor vehicles rose 0.9%, and e-commerce sales increased 1.5% to $4.4 billion.
An early February estimate indicates a further 0.9% increase, suggesting a positive start to the year for consumer spending, though the figure may be revised.