Retail sales post 1.7 per cent gain in February, Statistics Canada says

OTTAWA – Retail sales in Canada posted a gain of 1.7 per cent in February following two consecutive monthly declines.

Statistics Canada says retail sales climbed to $42.2 billion as all 11 retail subsectors posted gains.

Economists had expected a gain of 0.5 per cent for the month, according to Thomson Reuters.

General merchandise stores helped lead the way as sales climbed5.6 per cent for the month.

Sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers gained 0.9 per cent, while sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores increased 8.4 per cent. Food and beverage stores added 0.6 per cent.

Retail sales were up in seven provinces, led by British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec. Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia slipped lower.