Canada’s core retail sales bounced back strongly in August 2026, rising 1.2% month-over-month after a 0.8% decline in July, according to data updated on 23 October 2026.
The August figure marks a clear reversal from July’s weakness, when core retail sales fell by 0.8% compared with June 2026. On a month-over-month basis, the latest reading shows a solid improvement in underlying consumer spending, excluding more volatile components.
The comparison underscores the shift in momentum: while the previous indicator reflected a contraction in July versus June, the current data show a renewed expansion in August versus July, suggesting a firmer footing for Canada’s retail sector as the third quarter progresses.