Jump in gas prices fuels uptick in consumer spending, StatsCan says

Higher pump prices in June lifted overall retail sales in the month, which saw consumers spending climb 0.6 per cent from May to $43.2 billion.

Receipts for gas climbed 2.6 per cent from the previous month, the federal statistics agency said.

“Gasoline stations recorded the largest gain in dollar terms, reflecting higher prices at the pump,” Statscan said.

Sales at gasoline stations have increased five months in a row, following seven consecutive decreases.

Average fuel prices jumped 6 per cent from May to June, an increase that followed on a 5.5 per cent rise the previous month.

Retail sales climbed in all 10 provinces, Statscan said.