Retail Sales Flat in August, July's Revised Down

Washington, DC, Sept. 14, 2011 -- Retail sales were flat in August, according to the Commerce Department.

Consumers spent less on autos, clothing and furniture.

The govenment also said Wednesday that retail sales were slightly weaker in July than initially calculated, rising just 0.3%, down from the initial reading of 0.5%.

Auto sales fell 0.3% in August. Sales at clothing stores declined 0.7%. Gasoline sales rose.