Retail Sales Continue to Climb in September Despite Challenges

Retail sales in September hit $704 billion, a 3.8% increase from a year ago and 0.7% over August, marking 6 straight months of increases.

Increase shows consumer resilience despite inflation, rising interest rates, and global conflicts.

Categories like health, online sales, groceries, and clothing saw gains over last year.

Sporting goods, electronics, furniture saw declines compared to last year.

Total sales for July-September up 3.1% from a year ago, with food services up 9.2%.