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

The U.S. Commerce Department says consumers boosted their spending last month, signaling continued growth in the nation's economy.

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.