The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that total consumer retail spending increased for the 10th consecutive month in July, rising 5.15% from a year ago. The sales are not adjusted for inflation and also exclude sales at automobile dealers and gas stations. NRF said sales include store-based and online purchases in a broad range of retail categories including discount stores, department stores, grocers and specialty stores. “Retail sales maintained their steady upward momentum in July as consumers kept shopping despite ups and downs in other economic indicators,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. Core sales increased 6.53% and are trending higher than the 4.4% annual growth forecast from the NRF.