Retail sales slip in May

Retail sales slipped by 0.2 per cent in May compared with the previous month, with more than half of the sectors Statistics Canada tracks reporting declines.

In volume terms, however, sales increased by 0.4 per cent nationally, the agency said Thursday. That's in keeping with the rising trend since early 2009.

In dollar terms, building materials and gardening suppliers were off 4.1 per cent, while gasoline stations reported a 2.3 per cent drop as pump prices fell from April to May.

Sales of motor vehicle and parts slipped 0.5 per cent as a slight rise in new car sales failed to offset drops in used cars, parts and accessories, including tires.

Clothing and clothing accessories sales were up 2.6 per cent, while food and beverage sales rose 0.9 per cent.

Sales decline in 6 retail sectors

The decline of 0.2 per cent to $36 billion was weaker than some analysts had expected.

After declining for three consecutive months, sales rose 0.8 per cent at furniture and home furnishing stores.

The agency says sales dropped in six of the 11 retail sectors it tracks.

Sales were down in five provinces, including all Atlantic provinces except New Brunswick, where sales increased by 1.2 per cent.

Sales increased by 0.1 per cent in Ontario. British Columbia posted the highest gain in the country, at 1.5 per cent.