Canadian retail sales grew by 0.6% in April to $35.6 billion, rebounding from a weak March hurt by harsh winter weather, Statistics Canada said today.

The government agency said April marked the fifth monthly increase in retail sales in seven months.

Sales grew by 2.8% in the clothing and accessories sector, and by 1.8% at general merchandise stores, “indicating consumers might have delayed some of their spring purchases from March to April.”

Gasoline stations saw a 1.9% increase in sales, driven by higher fuel prices. According to the Consumer Price Index, gasoline prices rose by 6% in April from March.

Overall automotive sector sales were down slightly, the second decrease in seven months. Sales of new and used cars, recreational motor vehicles and parts were lower in April.