The National Retail Federation's (NRF) findings for the holiday season have just released, showing retail-industry sales-which exclude automobiles, gas stations and restaurants-for December increased 5.7% unadjusted over the previous year, and were flat seasonally adjusted from the previous month.

Combined, November and December brought holiday sales growth to 6.4%, slightly higher than NRF's forecast of 6.0%. Consumers spent a total of $438.6 billon this holiday season.

December retail sales released last week by the U.S. Commerce Department show that total retail sales-which include non-general merchandise categories such as autos, gasoline stations and restaurants-rose 0.7% seasonally adjusted from November and increased 6.4% unadjusted year-over-year.

Several retail sectors in December saw strong year-over-year growth. Building material and garden equipment and supplies stores saw positive gains, with sales up 8.2% over 2004. Due to aggressive pricing and clearance promotions, sales at clothing and clothing accessories stores increased 7.6%. Electronics, led by high-demand merchandise such as iPods and Xbox 360s, also performed well in December. Sales in electronics and appliance stores increased 7%.

Additionally, strong year-over-year gains were seen at health and personal care stores (6.8%), furniture and home furnishing stores (5.6%) and sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores (4.4%). Sales at department stores, which were challenged by discounters and luxury retailers this holiday season, were down 3% from December 2004.

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