Saskatchewan consumers are a bullish bunch.
StatsCanada has just released the latest retail sales figures showing Saskatchewan posted the strongest increase of any province in April, well ahead of the national growth track.
Retail or consumer spending is generally considered a measure of consumer confidence or an indication of how people are feeling about their economic prospects.
Nationally, sales in retail outlets rose one-third of a percentage point in April. Saskatchewan, by comparison, saw a gain of two full percentage points, roughly six times higher than the national average.
The federal agency says nation-wide the biggest gains were seen in the automotive sector. New vehicle sales were up about three points while used saw a two-percent gain and the parts side of the business was even stronger at four-percent. Gasoline sales were down, tracking lower prices as drivers bought more of the lower-priced fuel.
Retailers said tariffs were an issue as they have led to higher prices, however, the volume of items leaving retail shelves was actually higher suggesting consumers remain upbeat about their near-term prospects.
