Retail Resilience Amid Rising Costs | Spokane News

Spokane News Today | 2 Min | The Daily News Now! · Jul 16, 2026 · 1m

U.S. retail sales edged up in June, fueled by a rebound in car sales and a massive online shopping surge—despite lower gas prices dragging down gas station receipts. Economists now forecast stronger Q2 growth, buoyed by consumer spending powered by tax refunds and savings, even as inflation bites. Jobless claims hit a two-month low, reinforcing a resilient labor market, though the Fed is expected to hold rates steady. Gas prices are creeping back up amid Middle East tensions, and while Prime Day boosted online sales, some warn it may distort seasonal trends. Still, clothing and food retailers…