Canada’s retail sales increased for a third consecutive month in February, rising 0.5% in current dollars to $36 billion. Sales in volume terms increased 0.6%.

Sales increased in 7 of the 11 retail subsectors. The largest contributor to the overall increase was a 2.9% gain at motor vehicle and parts dealers, however, the clothing and clothing accessories stores subsector saw their sales increase in February for a third consecutive month (+4.3%). Sales rose 1.1% at jewellery, luggage and leathergoods stores, but fell 0.7% at shoe stores. Jewellery, luggage and leathergoods sales have risen 3.9% from February 2009.

Retail sales rose in nine provinces during February. The largest contributor to the increase was Alberta, where sales rose 1%.

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