NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz says U.S. Census Bureau data shows shoppers remained engaged in April amid continued concern over tariffs on imported merchandise. “While tariffs may have weighed on spending decisions, growth is coming at a moderate pace and consumer spending remains steady, reflecting a resilient economy,” Kleinhenz said. The Census Bureau said overall retail sales in April were up 0.1% from March and up 5.2%. Core retail sales as defined by NRF — excluding auto dealers, gas stations and restaurants — were down 0.1% from March but up 5.1% year over year.
