American consumers spent more at restaurants, appliance stores, garden and home improvement centers, and home furniture retailers in April. Despite warnings of economic impact from tariffs, spending at dining establishments, appliance stores, and furniture stores saw significant increases compared to the previous year.
Key Points
Spending at dining and drinking establishments increased by 1.2% in April
Sales at appliance stores and furniture stores rose by 0.3%
Garden centers and home improvement outlets saw a sales increase of 0.8%
Pros
Increased spending at restaurants and bars indicates consumer confidence in discretionary spending
Sales growth in furniture stores and appliance stores compared to the previous year
Cons
Decrease in sales at health and beauty stores, department stores, and clothing stores