US consumers spent more at retailers in October than economists expected, signaling a positive start to the crucial end-of-year shopping period.

A positive October sales report shows a strong retail market. U.S. retail sales increased slightly more than expected in October as households boosted purchases of motor vehicles and electronic goods, suggesting the economy kicked off the fourth quarter on a strong note.

A jump in sales at auto dealers drove much of the gain. Purchases climbed at electronics and appliances stores and at restaurants and bars. Though some of October's rise in retail sales reflected higher prices,