Retail sales in the US increased last month as consumer spending surged, according to data from the National Retail Federation (NRF).

The figures, based on data from the US Census Bureau, show that overall retail sales in the month rose 0.7% seasonally adjusted from August.

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This was up by 13.9% year-over-year (YoY) and equal to the increase in retail sales from July to August, as reported by the NRF last month.

Retail sales for the month, excluding sales at automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants, were up by 0.7% seasonally adjusted from the previous month and 11% unadjusted YoY.

Sporting goods stores showed high growth of 3.7%, while sales of general merchandise increased by 2%.

During the month, sales in clothing and clothing accessory stores grew by 1.1% month-over-month seasonally adjusted and 22.5% unadjusted YoY.

Grocery and beverage store sales also rose by 0.7% month-over-month seasonally adjusted and 7.4% unadjusted YoY.

In addition, online and other non-store sales increased 0.6% month-over-month seasonally adjusted and were up by 10.5% unadjusted YoY.

Sales for the first nine months of the year were up by 14.5% against the corresponding period of the previous year.

NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay said: “Today’s retail sales data confirms the sheer power of the consumer to spend, and we expect this to continue.

“Despite persistent challenges related to the global pandemic, supply chain and labour shortages, retailers and their partners have shown resilience and ingenuity in getting the workforce, goods and systems in place to serve their customers and the communities where they operate.

“We welcomed the chance to collaborate with the Biden administration and industry partners this week to address supply chain and labour force issues.

“We have seen record imports this year and are confident that collectively we can work through these challenges to ensure a healthy and happy holiday season.”