of the economy recording gains in sales revenue, recently released figures show.

Even with adjustments for inflation which ran at 2.7 percent during the month, the volume of retail sales rose for the fifth consecutive month to 2.1 percent.

Motor vehicle and service stations led the way with receipts rising 13.7 percent as both petrol and vehicle sales surpassed the previous year's level.

Although dealers reported increased car sales, there were also slight increases in the price of vehicles.

Generally, other retail stores had mixed performances during the month of May resulting in gross revenue increasing two percent compared to last year.

However shops catering to both tourists and locals reported weak sales performances. This trend was also seen in the building, hardware supplies, electronic equipment and shoe sales which fell below levels recorded in May 1995.

Fortunately, stronger sales in shops selling furniture, home appliances, boats, clothing and jewellery offset these trends.

Additionally, food sales increased 5.9 percent while aggregate receipts from liquor stores rose 4.5 percent compared to last year.

Bermudians who returned from trips in May declared $2.47 million worth of goods which was an increase of 9.8 percent compared to the previous year.