Strong month for NAICS 444

Lumberyards, hardware stores and home centers fared well in the most recent government report measuring monthly retail sales.

In the month of November, NAICS 444 businesses – building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers – showed 1.4% month-to-month gains on an adjusted basis, and 7.8% gains compared to a year ago. 

The data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s monthly sales report puts NAICS 444 near the top of the class in terms of growth. Of 13 major types of businesses tracked, only motor vehicle and parts dealers (up 1.7%) had a higher month-to-month increase. On a year-over-year basis, only nonstore retailers (up 8.7%) and motor vehicle and parts dealers (up 8.6%) surpassed growth at building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers.

The figures above are derived from estimates adjusted for seasonal variation and holiday and trading-day differences, but not for price changes.

Across the entire retail landscape, the numbers were seen as an early gift in the eyes of the National Retail Federation.

Retail trade sales were up 0.7% from October, and up 4.9% above last year.

“Increasing wages combined with lower gas prices are providing retailers with an early holiday present this year,” said Jack Kleinhenz, NRF chief economist. “Every economic indicator is pointing toward a strong holiday season. Healthy November sales should provide momentum for an even stronger December as customers continue to seek out deals all the way to Christmas.”