Retail sales in this country came in stronger than expected during October, rising by 0.4%.
Statistics Canada reported Friday that total sales activity for the month hit $54.6 billion, marking the sixth consecutive monthly increase since the record decline in April.
The nation's number crunchers said sales growth was led by motor vehicle and parts dealers. Sales at new car dealerships was up 0.8%.
The consensus expectation of economists had been for sales to rise by 0.2% in October, following the 1.9% jump seen in September.
Sales in British Columbia rose by 2.1%, with health and personal care stores, as well as building material and garden equipment and supplies dealers, contributing the most to the increase. In Alberta, sales rose 1.1% on higher sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers.
In Ontario, retail activity fell for the first time since April, coinciding with a record number of COVID-19 cases and stricter public health measures within the province. Sales in Ontario were down by 0.4%, with the drop led by clothing and clothing accessories stores.
Statistics Canada said its advance outlook for November is that retail activity is expected to remain relatively unchanged.
