Phoenix Sales Jobs See Significant Yearly Growth

Phoenix sales jobs (Click here) and sales jobs throughout the nation saw little movement last month as sales remained virtually unchanged, but the industry continues to flourish when compared to last year.

According to a recent report from the National Retail Federation, retail industry sales increased by .1 percent during July and by 6 percent over the last year. This shows that consumers are still hesitant to spend money, but are becoming more confident over time.

"Consumer spending in August was tempered by a continued lack of confidence in the strength of our economy," Matthew Shay, president and CEO of NRF, said in a statement. "Having carried the brunt of the economic recovery so far, consumers may be waiting for good news in terms of employment and market stability, cautiously spending on things they need and thinking twice about things they want."

A separate report from the U.S. Department of Commerce found that total retail sales - including such items as gas, automobiles, and restaurants - increased by .1 percent in July and by 9 percent over the year.

The following types of stores saw sales growth over the month:

• Sporting goods, hobby, book, and music stores - +2.4 percent
• Electronic and appliance stores - +.5 percent
• Health and personal care stores - +.2 percent
• Building material and supplies stores - +.2 percent

"August retail sales mirror August employment figures – zero growth," said NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. "Consumer spending has stalled, and it will be important for consumers to see positive changes in the economic outlook going into the fourth quarter. While we're not expecting a complete pull back in spending, the outlook remains modest in terms of growth."