Retail sales rose 2.2% to $46.0 billion in January, led by four subsectors that rebounded from lower sales in December. Excluding sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers, retail sales advanced 1.7%.

After removing the effects of price changes, retail sales in volume terms increased 1.3%.

Sales were up in 10 of 11 subsectors in January, respresenting 98% of retail trade.

The largest increase in dollar terms was a 3.8% advance at motor vehicle and parts dealers, the fourth gain in five months. The increase in this subsector was mainly attributable to new car dealers (+4.2%). Gains were also reported at used car dealers (+4.3%) and other motor vehicle dealers (+4.2%).