US wholesale stockpiles rose 1.1 percent in April; seen as positive economic sign

WASHINGTON (AP) -- U.S. wholesale businesses built up their stockpiles of goods in April, a sign that companies expect stronger economic growth in the coming months.<br /> <br /> The Commerce Department says wholesale stockpiles expanded 1.1 percent in April, following a 1.1 percent gain in March. The result marks 10 straight months of rising inventories.<br /> <br /> Sales at the wholesale level climbed 1.3 percent, led by autos, furniture and pharmaceutical drugs. Sales rose 1.6 percent in March. Year-over-year, sales are up 6.7 percent.<br /> <br /> Because sales have roughly kept pace with the higher inventories, companies will likely need to continue restocking their shelves to meet rising consumer and business demand. That should help to fuel faster economic growth as more factories crank up their production and the spending ripples through the broader economy.

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