en.Wedoany.com Reported - US apparel and accessories retail sales rose 0.59% month-over-month and 9.75% year-over-year in April 2026, leading all major retail categories. According to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor released by the National Retail Federation (NRF), the apparel sector posted the highest growth, except for digital products (games and e-books), which saw a 1.11% month-over-month increase.

Overall retail sales (excluding auto dealers and gas stations) rose 0.34% month-over-month and 5.73% year-over-year in April; core retail sales (further excluding restaurants) posted the same monthly increase and a 5.53% year-over-year rise. Both growth rates slowed compared to March—when overall retail monthly and annual growth rates were 0.4% and 6.59%, respectively.

NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay stated that retail sales still achieved growth in April despite rising oil prices driven by the Iran conflict, cautious consumer sentiment, and persistent inflation concerns. A stable labor market, wage growth, and tax refund inflows supported household priority spending. Consumers are cost-conscious, while retailers are striving to maintain the affordability of everyday goods.

Monthly data showed that all categories recorded growth except for furniture and home furnishings. In the first four months of this year, overall retail sales rose a cumulative 6.07% year-over-year, and core sales increased by 5.99%. The monitor data is based on anonymized credit and debit card transaction records compiled by Affinity Solutions. The NRF previously stated that it remains optimistic about the stability of the US economy in 2026, despite challenges posed by the Middle East situation and US trade policies.

This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com