Monthly Gains Driven by Fuel Vendors
Retail sales in Canada increased by 1% to $73.7 billion in May, boosted primarily by higher prices at gasoline stations and fuel vendors, according to Statistics Canada. Early estimates suggest a 0.4% gain for June, though figures may be revised.
Sector Performance
All nine tracked subsectors posted gains. Gasoline stations and fuel vendors led with a 3.1% increase in value, though volumes fell 2.7%. Overall retail sales volume rose 0.3% for the month.
Core Retail Sales
Excluding volatile sectors like fuel and motor vehicles, core retail sales rose 0.9%, reversing two consecutive months of decline. General merchandise retailers gained 1%, while sporting goods, hobby, and miscellaneous stores rose 1.8%—both their first gains in three months.
Food and Beverage Sector
Sales at food and beverage retailers increased 0.5%, supported by a 1% gain at supermarkets and grocery stores, excluding convenience stores.
