Retail sales rose 0.4% in April, less than expected as consumers struggle with inflation

A woman stands in front of an empty retail space in lower Manhattan on April 17, 2017 in New York City. As American’s shopping habits continue to migrate online, brick-and-mortar stores across the country are closing at an increased rate. For the first time in nearly two years, retail sales declined two months in a row according to recently released figures from the Commerce Department.

Spencer Platt | Getty Images