Canada retail sales fell -0.4% MoM in February, in line with expectations and adding to the -0.6% MoM decline in January.

• Core retail sales, which exclude gasoline stations and fuel vendors and motor vehicle and parts dealers, were up 0.5% MoM.
• The largest decrease in retail sales in February was observed at motor vehicle and parts dealers (-2.6% MoM).
• Sales at gasoline stations and fuel vendors (+0.3% MoM) increased in February for a fifth consecutive month.
• Food and beverage sales increased 2.8% MoM, and general merchandise sales grew 1.2% MoM.
• Furniture and clothing sales both dropped significantly, down -2.9% MoM and -2.7% MoM.
• The advance estimate of March retail sales points to growth of 0.7% MoM to end the quarter.