U.S. retail sales increased solidly in September likely as lower gasoline prices gave consumers more money to spend at restaurants and bars, supporting the view that the economy maintained a strong growth pace in the third quarter.

STORY: U.S. retail sales increased more than expected in September, another sign that economic growth remained strong in the third quarter. A report from the Commerce Department out Thursday showed sharp increases in receipts at retailers ranging from clothing outlets to book stores,

Retail sales in the United States accelerated in September, according to government data released Thursday, a positive sign for consumption as the election approaches.

Retail sales rose 0.4% from August to September, the Commerce Department said Thursday, up from 0.1% the previous month and the third straight increase. Online retailers, restaurants, and grocery stores all reported higher sales.

Non-food retailers, particularly those in the computer and telecommunications sectors, drove the gains, while supermarkets reported a significant decline.

Retail Sales in the United Kingdom increased 0.30% in September over the previous month, following a rise of 1.0% in August. The figure beats the consensus of 0.3% fall. Retail sales rose 3.9% Y/Y, more than estimates of 3.