U.S. reports slight rise in November retail sales

U.S. retail sales rose slightly in November, supported by strong sales in food and clothing, but dampened by bleak sales in auto and gas.

In November, retail sales went up 0.2 percent from the previous month, slightly up from an increase of 0.1 percent in October, the Commerce Department said Friday.

On a year-on-year basis, sales went up 1.4 percent in November.

Sales in food and clothing jumped 0.7 percent and 0.8 percent respectively.

Motor vehicle and parts sales fell 0.4 percent while gasoline sales dropped 0.8 percent.

Excluding the volatile auto sales, total retail sales expanded 0.4 percent in November.

Sluggish sales may raise concerns about American consumers' spending power. Retail sales account for about one third of consumer spending, the main engine of economic activity. Endi