The Commerce Department says retail sales increased 0.4 percent last month, the ninth consecutive gain. However, the increase shrank to a slight 0.1 percent when sales at gasoline stations were excluded. But much of the weakness came from a big drop in auto sales. Excluding gasoline and autos, sales were up a more respectable 0.6 percent.
Economists are hoping that a payroll tax cut and brighter outlook for job growth will keep consumers shopping this year. Consumer spending accounts for 70 percent of economic activity.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2011/4/237899