Retail Sales Climb 0.9% in May Amid Lower Gas Prices

WHO:

ABC News - Shoppers increased their spending.

Bloomberg Markets - Michael McKee reported on Bloomberg Television.

WHAT:

ABC News - Retail sales increased by 0.9% in May.

Bloomberg Markets - The value of retail purchases rose by 0.9% after a revised increase of 0.4% in April.

Bloomberg Markets - Consumer demand remained resilient.

WHERE:

ABC News - The report pertains to retail sales in the United States.

WHEN:

Bloomberg Markets - The retail sales figures for May are reported, with a revised figure for April.

WHY:

ABC News - Increased spending was attributed to improved weather and lower gasoline prices.

Bloomberg Markets - The increase in retail sales occurred despite high gasoline prices.

HOW:

ABC News - Shoppers responded to improved weather conditions and lower gasoline prices by increasing their spending.

(UPDATED June 17, 2026 16:18 UTC)

Retail sales in the United States saw a notable increase of 0.9% in May, following a revised rise of 0.4% in April. This boost in consumer spending is attributed to improved weather conditions and lower gasoline prices, which encouraged shoppers to open their wallets. Despite some fluctuations in gas prices, consumer demand has remained resilient, indicating a positive trend in retail activity.