The Canadian Press

Statistics Canada says retail sales rose 0.7 per cent in January to $35.7 billion, driven partly by consumers rushing to take advantage of the final month of the federal government’s Home Renovation Tax Credit.

The agency says sales volumes rose 0.1 per cent, with significantly higher prices at new car dealers and gasoline stations.

Sales increased in six of eight retail store sectors, with building and outdoor home supplies stores recording a 7.4 per cent rise.

Sales of furniture, home furnishings and electronics rose 2.5 per cent, driven by a big gain in sales of home flooring.

Automotive sales slipped 1.5 per cent in January with a third consecutive monthly drop in new car sales.

Sales rose in seven provinces, led by a 1.4 per cent increase in Ontario.