Canadian Press

The value of retail sales rose 0.4% to $35.3 billion in December, offsetting the previous month’s decline, Statistics Canada said Friday.

In volume terms, sales advanced even more at 0.6%.

The December sales are expected to add to the already positive expectations for fourth-quarter economic growth.

The agency said five of eight retail sectors gained in December.

The biggest advance was the 3.3% gain registered by general merchandisers, including department stores.

As well, clothing and accessories stores advanced 2.1%, boosted by the shoe component, which jumped 5.2%.

Sales in the auto sector advanced 0.9% and gasoline stations 2.2%.

Declines occurred in three sectors: food and beverage, supermarkets and stores that sell beer, wine and liquor.

Statistics Canada said sales rose in six provinces during the month.