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Why it matters: COVID savings are largely spent and credit card balances have risen sharply. But consumers continue spending because of the strong jobs market and income growth that is now outpacing inflation.

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By the numbers:

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• Sales rose at non-store retailers (mostly online sellers) (1.9%), food and drinking places (1.4%), sporting goods and hobby stores (1.5%), clothing and accessory stores (1%), food and beverage stores (0.8%), general merchandise stores (0.8%), building material and garden supply stores (0.7%), health and personal care stores (0.7%), and gas stations (0.4%).

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• Sales declined at furniture stores (1.8%), electronics and appliance stores (1.3%), motor vehicles and parts dealers (0.3%), and miscellaneous stores (0.3%).

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Bottom line: As long as the job market remains robust and incomes remain steady, consumers will have money to spend.