US consumer spending rose modest 0.3 per cent in February, reflecting impacts from harsh winter

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In this March 24, 2014, photo, sale sign is displayed in a shoe store in the Shadyside shopping district of Pittsburgh. The Commerce Department releases personal income and spending for February on Friday, March 28, 2014. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

WASHINGTON – Americans spent slightly more in February but the gain still left consumer spending growing at a modest pace, held back by severe winter weather.

The Commerce Department says consumer spending rose 0.3 per cent in February following a 0.2 per cent rise in January. The spending increases would have been even weaker except for a surge in spending on utility bills. In February, spending on durable goods such as autos actually dropped as consumers stayed away from auto dealerships. Service spending, which covers utility payments, rose.

Income increased 0.3 per cent in February, the same amount as January.

Analysts say consumer spending, which accounts for 70 per cent of economic activity, slowed significantly in the current quarter and will depress overall economic growth. But they are looking for a rebound in the second quarter.

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