Retail Sales Up Most in Four Months in January

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Retail Sales Up Most in Four Months in January

Washington, DC, Feb. 14, 2012 -- U.S. retail sales rose in January by the most in four months, according to the Commerce Department.

Spending was higher at department stores, general stores and bars and restaurants.

Sales increased a seasonally adjusted 0.4% last month.

Most retailers actually saw a boost in sales, suggesting broader strength in the U.S. economy.

Excluding the auto sector, retail sales rose 0.7%, the highest level in 10 months.

Sales fell 1.1% at Internet and mail-order retailers, marking the biggest drop in almost three years. And sales for January fell slightly at health stores and home-furnishing outlets.