Retail sales in the US continued to surge in February compared to year-ago figures amid continued challenges such as higher inflation and the lingering impact of Covid-19.

Citing data from the US Census Bureau, the National Retail Federation (NRF) reported that overall retail sales in February rose 0.3 per cent seasonally adjusted from January and 17.6 per cent year on year.

Clothing and clothing accessory stores, which include jewellery retailers, were up 1.1 per cent month-over-month seasonally adjusted and 31 per cent unadjusted from the same period in 2021.

NRF however noted a slower growth in February from January as inflation drove up prices and the omicron variant remains a challenge to businesses. US inflation rate reached 7.9 per cent in February – the highest in 40 years.

“Retail sales data continues to show impressive consumer resilience,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Despite all that has been thrown at them including inflation, supply chain constraints, market volatility and significant geopolitical events, consumers remain able and willing to spend.”

Shay remains upbeat about prospects, adding that retail sales in 2022 could grow by 6 per cent to 8 per cent.