Retail Sales Rise Slightly in April

Washington, DC, May 15, 2012 — Retail sales edged up in April, according to the Commerce Department.

Retail sales rose 0.1%, held back by a decline in building materials and clothing stores.

That was the smallest gain since December, when sales were flat.

March’s sales were revised slightly down to show a 0.7% rise rather than the previously reported 0.8% increase.