Retail sales in the United States increased for the third straight month in September. Retailers and economists alike are hoping these positive numbers mean that economic conditions are and will continue to improve.

According to a report from the Census Bureau, retail sales rose by 1.1 percent from August, which represents a year-over-year increase of 5.4 percent, reports Retail Customer Experience. Throughout September, consumers spent approximately $412.9 billion. The previous month's total for retail sales was initially estimated to have increased by 0.9 percent from July, but the Bureau revised that figure to 1.2 percent. The three consecutive months of positive spending has many economists believing that it could turn into a continued trend, the source states.

On the other hand, some large retailers experienced less-than-expected sales during the month. Retailing Today reports that Macy's and Kohl's department stores did not bring in as much as anticipated. Despite this, economists are telling retailers to prepare for a successful holiday shopping season.

"This should set up to be a good holiday season," said Ken Perkins, president of Retail Metrics LLC, as quoted by the source. "Consumers needed to take a breather once the back-to-school season is over."

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Monday, October 22nd, 2012 at 1:27 am .