Retail trade rises in November

OTTAWA —  Retail sales rose 0.6% in November to $41.0 billion, the fourth increase in five months, according to the latest StatCan data. This increase was largely attributable to higher sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers as well as electronics and appliance stores. Gains were observed in 9 of 11 subsectors, accounting for 72% of retail trade. Weather and the timing of new product releases had a greater effect on monthly sales than promotional events in November such as Black Friday. In volume terms, retail sales rose 0.8%. Sales at building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers (-1.5%) were down for the second consecutive month. Retail sales rose in seven provinces in November.